Westfield Teen, Service Dog Removed From School Bus By SARAH MCGRAIL Specially Written for The Westfield Leader

WESTFIELD — A Westfield schoolgirl and her service dog were removed by police from a school bus, a mother claimed at Tuesday’s board of education meeting. But Board President Gretchan Ohlig said the district and the bus company had a responsibility to ensure that other children on the bus were not allergic to dogs. Fraidy Reiss, of Edgar Road, said her daughter, Avigail, boarded the

school bus on January 3 with her service dog, Logan, but was told she was not allowed to travel with the dog. Ms. Reiss said she got on the bus to explain to the bus driver that she had resolved the issue with the school district but, after half an hour, the bus company called the police. “The police removed my daughter and the service dog from the bus that morning,” Ms. Reiss told the board. “It took me a full week to persuade the district to drive my daughter and her service dog to school.

Paul Lachenauer for The Westfield Leader

SUPER BOWL SUNDAY...The Westfield Neighborhood Council hosted a Super Bowl party on Sunday. Among those in attendance were Mayor Shelley Brindle, center (in back), Councilpersons Dawn Mackey and David Contract, second and third from right, and Michael Dardia, left (in back) along with Neighborhood Council members Ahisha Quallis, Mary Withers and Carol Mercer.

Six Arrested After Refusing To Leave Lance’s Office By PAUL J. PEYTON Specially Written for The Westfield Leader

WESTFIELD — Police arrested six protestors, including clergy members, Monday after they refused to leave the North Avenue office of Congressman Leonard Lance (R-7th, Westfield). According to police, those charged were the Reverend Ann Ralosky, 54, senior minister at the First Congregational Church in Montclair and a Montclair resident; Rabbi Elliott Tepperman, 49, of B’nai Keshet in Montclair, a West Orange resident; Pastor John Rogers, 29, of First Congregational Church in Montclair and a resident of Montclair; Rabbi Faith Dantowitz, 52, of B’nai Abraham in Livingston, a resident of Millburn; Kristin Peck, 65, of Maplewood, a member of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Summit, and Nedia Morsy, 25, of Hillside, an organizer at Make the Road New Jersey, an immigrants’ rights group in Elizabeth. All were charged with defiant trespass. They were processed and each was released with a summons pending a court date, the Westfield Police Department confirmed. According to news reports, police were summoned by Mr. Lance’s staff when the group refused to leave the office until they had received an answer from the Congressman, who was not in the office at the time, that he would vote in favor of a “clean DREAM Act.” DREAM is an acronym for Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors. The legislative proposal would qualify alien minors in the United States by first granting them conditional residency and, upon meeting further qualifications, permanent residency. Mr. Lance’s spokesman said the Congressman is the co-sponsor of “clean” legislation concerning DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) recipients – H.R. 1468. He also said the Congressman supports bipartisan solutions to break the impasse over DACA, including the Problem Solvers’proposal. Mr. Lance and New

WESTFIELD WEST

Jersey Democratic representative Josh Gottheimer (D-5th) are both members of the Problem Solvers Caucus. When asked for comment on the arrests, press secretary John Byers released the following statement: “Congressman Lance has great respect for our state clergy and is happy to meet with the congregation at a time that is mutually convenient for both parties as he has done with other religious leaders and groups on numerous occasions.” He said Mr. Lance’s staff offered to schedule a meeting with the Congressman, even though he does not represent Montclair, in either New Jersey or Washington. “That offer was ignored,” Mr. Byers said in an e-mail. He said the protestors requested to be arrested, saying the group had called Westfield police earlier in the day to notify them they were coming and research what charges would be brought against them.

Lance’s 46th Town Hall Sat. In Bridgewater WESTFIELD — Congressman Leonard Lance (R-7th, Westfield) announced yesterday that he will host his 46th in-person town hall meeting this Saturday, February 10 beginning at 9 a.m. at Bridgewater-Raritan Middle School in Bridgewater. During the town hall meeting, Mr. Lance will take questions on the important issues facing Congress and the American people. Mr. Lance will discuss government funding, national security, the Robert Mueller investigation, his leadership role in combating sexual harassment, the successful reauthorization of the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and other issues. Additionally, members of Mr. Lance’s staff will be available to assist residents who are experiencing difficulties with federal agencies such as the IRS, Social Security Administration, Veterans Affairs, the State Department or any other federal agency.

“Special Services have gone out of their way to do everything they can, in violation of federal and state law and human decency, to bar my daughter from going to school with her service dog,” Ms. Reiss said. Avigail, 18, told board members, “The feeling of waking up in the morning, walking outside and thinking you can go to school but then being told you can’t, being stopped and then watching all the other children on the school bus being taken off in front of you and basically being told you’re doing something wrong somehow, of course that makes me feel bad. It’s not fair. It’s not fair to me and to anyone else in my position.” Ms. Reiss said the district had been aware that her daughter would be getting a service dog since May, but she had not been informed that any special paperwork would be required. “Avigail, I am very sorry you were put in that situation. You are absolutely entitled to the same education that everyone in this district gets, and I apologize if you felt otherwise,” Ms. Ohlig responded. Responding to Ms. Reiss, Ms. Ohlig said, “A second bus had to come and I’m sure that was disturbing for you and really upsetting for your daughter that a second bus had to take all the other children and the police had to get involved.” Ms. Ohlig explained that the bus served multiple children from around the area and, before a service dog could travel on the bus, their parents had to be contacted to check there were no allergies or phobias to dogs. “We have an obligation to all the children who ride that bus, as does the bus company,” she said. Avigail Reiss first traveled to Cornerstone Day School, a private school in Mountainside, with her dog on CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

Courtesy of Borough of Fanwood

EXCHANGING IDEAS...Members of the Mayors Task Force of the Raritan Valley Rail Coalition (RVRC) recently met in Westfield to discuss their goals and ideas for the Raritan Valley Line. Please see story on Page 3.

WESTFIELD — The planning board, in a 5-to-4 decision Monday night, approved applicant D. Villane Construction to demolish a single-family dwelling at 621 Fairfield Circle, allowing for a subdivision of the property. The two new building lots each will contain a new single-family home. The applicant was granted a variance relief from a 60-foot minimum lot frontage ordinance, proposing a 52.94-foot lot frontage.

Plans in Approval Process For Addams Tavern By LAUREN S. BARR Specially Written for The Westfield Leader

WESTFIELD – In a piece of potentially good news for the Westfield foodies, Addams Tavern owner Chip Grabowski told The Westfield Leader that, “if all goes well,” the popular eatery could re-open in 90 days. Mr. Grabowski told The Leader that all of the drawings for the courtrequired work will be completed today (Thursday) for submission to the landlord and town building depart-

ment. He said the process has taken a bit longer, but that they wanted to “make sure all our t’s are crossed and our i’s are dotted.” Harvest Restaurant Group, the parent company of Addams Tavern, was able to accommodate all of the events scheduled at Addams, and while a few employees chose to leave, Mr. Grabowski said that the majority of Addams’ employees were relocated to other Harvest restaurants. He added

Ten neighboring residents provided commentary against a subdivision approval before the decision was rendered. “It breaks my heart to see another old house in a neighborhood torn down,” said resident Donna Perch during public commentary. According to state tax records, the home dates back to 1908. The residents who provided commentary stated they were in favor of one larger home, whether through an addition to an existing structure or as a rebuild, but not a subdivision adding two additional homes where one currently exists. “I lived on Carleton Road for seven years. I am very familiar with the character of the neighborhood. (The subdivision) is not keeping with the character of the neighborhood,” said Mayor and planning board member Shelley Brindle, stating why she did not vote for approval of the subdivision. Planning board member Michael LaPlace said he did not support the subdivision approval because the applicant did not meet the standards of demonstrating a hardship and the proposed project was “not in character of the neighborhood and not appropriate of the neighborhood.”

“We comply with lot width, we comply with lot size. We comply with all bulk standards and side-yard setbacks,” said the applicant’s attorney, Stephen Hehl. Mr. Hehl said a hardship the applicant faces or need for variance relief is because the lot is on a curved road. “More often than not,” lots on curved roads are narrower towards the street or have less “lot frontage” and are wider as the property goes further back, stated community planning consultant Peter G. Steck in testimony for the applicant. “I recognize (the developer’s) investment return and irregular lot. The subdivision is a detriment to the community. To put two homes 10 feet from the property line with a zipper (driveway) down the middle,” said resident Maureen Tinen, stating how the developer did not prove how the subdivision will not be a community detriment. Planning Board Chairman Robert Newell said 10-foot setbacks from a neighboring property are allowed per existing ordinances and the planning board must legally acknowledge existing ordinances. “Very emotional issue. What we can and cannot do have been challenged in CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

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Board Hears Final Report On 298-Unit Development By MICHAEL BONACCORSO Specially Written for The Westfield Leader

GARWOOD — Stonefield Engineering and Design professional engineer, Charles D. Olivo, presented the planning board last Wednesday with a final traffic and parking report for the proposed 298-unit South Avenue redevelopment, property known as the Casale/Petro site. The property is owned by South Ave. Urban Renewal, LLC, which is affiliated with Russo Development. At last week’s meeting Mr. Olivo said the development should “not have a significant impact on the operation of intersections” or Garwood’s traffic flow. Mr. Olivo said a technologically advanced parking system utilizing realtime data to determine spot availability, on-site valets, and managerial oversight would provide SouthAvenue residents, their visitors, and retail consumers with an uninhibited parking experience. “Over the last five years we have found after projects are built they are very low with trip generation,” he said.

Trip generation refers to the total motor vehicles utilizing SouthAvenue and the Center Street intersection after the development is constructed. The total cars waiting at each light change along South Avenue headed towards Center Street would increase by two cars on average, according to Mr. Olivo. Harbor Consultants, Inc. engineer Victor Vinegra said reducing the yellow marked no idling zone in front of the Garwood firehouse could allow more cars to clear the light and actually more accessibility for emergency vehicles leaving the firehouse. Mr. Olivo concurred with Mr. Vinegra’s opinion. Mr. Olivo said “peak times” are the most important time frame when considering “post build” traffic impacts. Planning Board member Bill Nierstedt said too often engineers representing developers often say the traffic impact will be zero on travel time, but the travel time becomes a little bit longer after each surrounding development is finished.

TEA CEREMONY...The Westfield Area YMCA hosted a Japanese tea ceremony January 19 led by Miki Sugimoto, Omotesenke-style tea ceremony instructor with the Japan Center of New Jersey. Ms. Sugimoto conducted the table and chair tea ceremony and instructed attendees on the utensils, process and rituals. The authentic tea service included a Japanese sweet, Matcha tea tasting, and a discussion of the history and culture of tea in Japan. Participants gathered in the Glasser Foundation Lounge after the ceremony for additional refreshments and socializing. For more information on Westfield Area YMCA classes, programs and events, visit westfieldynj.org or call (908) 301-YMCA (9622).

Freeholders to Vote Tonight On Courthouse Stairwell By PAUL J. PEYTON Specially Written for The Westfield Leader

David B. Corbin for The Westfield Leader

THE EAGLE HAS LANDED....Brooks Crandall, a photographer for The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times and die-hard Philadelphia Eagles fan, stopped into the newspaper’s offices on Monday after arriving back from a Super Bowl party in Philadelphia to celebrate his team’s first Super Bowl championship.

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Mr. Olivo said he does not suggest any specific road construction will be necessary such as lane expansion or increasing road surface area to accommodate the 298 residential units’traffic impact. Keeping a pedestrian environment where residents walk, bicycle, use transit buses and trains to travel to work is important to the downtown Garwood wants to foster. Mr. Olivo said residents living in the development and commuting to the city would use NJ Transit, including both buses and trains. He said 35 bicycle slips would be available with over seven separate bicycle racks. He said widening roads, adding turning lanes, and other road reconstructive measures would encourage more automotive use. Mr. Olivo said more automotive use bolsters negative environmental impacts including a need for more storm water retention and higher municipal insurance premiums, while hampering the “the pedestrian experience.” Resident Bruce Paterson said he was concerned how an intersection with a New Jersey Department of Transportation “F-rating” is acceptable. Intersections are ranked “A” to “F,” with “A” being the best and “F” the worst in terms of traffic congestion. “Is it okay to add cars because it is already F-rated and will continue to be?” Mr. Paterson asked. Mr. Olivo responded that the entire intersection is not “F rated,” but specific positions or vehicular maneuvers currently are rated poorly. He said postconstruction alterations can be made including altering signal time to assure the intersection remains safe and efficient. A total of 482 parking spaces will be available for 298 residential units. Fortyeight of the 482 parking slips will be available for retail space employees, patrons and visitors. Christopher Minks, an attorney for Russo Development, the developer for the project, said data collections on consumer averages would create a balance between residential availability and visitor parking availability based on an implied demand and an actual demand. “This is not AI (artificial intelligence),” said Mr. Minks, suggesting a parking manager would oversee spot inventories based on non-accountedfor factors such as impending snowstorms. Mr. Minks said the parking technology is proposed to create a 20-percent increase in parking efficiency such as parking spot location time stated. An electronic board would inform residents which floor has available parking spots, saving residents time. Mr. Olivo said hourly visitor parking reduces parking abuse to help free up space. Mr. Minks added that the parking garage would be privately operated and is not a municipal entity.

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Mr. Minks said if a restaurant is selected for the retail space in the development, valets would park patrons’ cars, assessing availability based on a technology system determining which floor in the three-story South Avenue parking garage open spots are available. Mr. Minks said the valet service is a “game changer,” separating Russo Development end products from other developers’ layouts in neighboring townships. A second development, known as SouthAvenue II, will include 52 stacked townhouses. The board may vote on the application at its Wednesday, February 21 meeting after testimony has been completed.

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January 2. Ms. Reiss said that, within hours, she started getting e-mails and calls from the district saying the dog could not travel on the school bus until she submitted verification that it was a service dog. She said that she provided the required information proving the dog had its license and was in good health on January 2, but Avigail and Logan were still prevented from traveling to school on January 3. Ms. Ohlig said that January 4 was a snow day and that, by the following day, the district had spoken to the parents of all the other children on the bus and was “good to go.” Ms. Reiss asked the board to apologize to her and her daughter, to review its policy regarding service dogs, and to pay the legal expenses of $9,000 she has incurred fighting the case. Earlier in the meeting, the board heard that work to refurbish the middle-school auditoriums has almost been completed. Bids would be invited for the work on Kehler Stadium this week, and it is hoped this will start in May and be completed by August 31.

COUNTY — Union County is set to move ahead with its courthouse tower project with the awarding of a $19million construction contract at tonight’s freeholders meeting. The freeholders are expected to vote to approve a contract with Millburnbased GPC, Inc. The company was previously given an $840,000 contract two years ago for improvements to the radio room in the courthouse tower. Joseph Graziano, director of the Department of Engineering, Public Works and Facilities Management, said the county was first told it needed to address safety concerns of the state regarding the tower in 2000. The state had threatened to close the building due to fire code violations and later ordered the county to add a second egress. Mr. Graziano said the county spent around a million dollars in developing plans for an exterior stairwell. “Because at the time that was what we were considering,” Mr. Graziano said in responding to questions from Freeholder Angel Estrada. The county decided against an exterior stairwell for safety reasons. The county later opted to construct an interior stairwell and to build a separate 78,000-square-foot family courthouse on Cherry Street in Elizabeth, a $38.6-million facility with seven courtrooms and judges’ chambers and offices for the county’s improvement authority. That facility opened last year. Mr. Graziano said GPC came in 12.5 percent, or $2.3 million, under the county’s engineer’s estimated budget for the tower project. He said the lowest three or four bids from prospective contractors were “very, very tight” while the higher two bids were “pretty much off the scale.” He estimated construction will start around March and will take three years to complete. It will start with the courthouse rotunda and proceed to the tower. “This project has to happen...We do need another form of egress,” he said. “God forbid something happens to one of our employees.” Freeholder Al Mirabella asked if the project would present a problem to members of the public. Mr. Graziano said the county has been working with the state courts administration to move employees out of areas as the construction is done, noting that the project will be completed one floor at a time and during evening hours. In addition to the construction contract, the county has spent $3.7 million in architectural and engineering services with Netta Architects of Mountainside and another $1.9 million on construction management services with Mast Construction Services of Little Falls for the project, according to a check of county agendas. In other business, the freeholders also will vote tonight to award a

$638,000 contract to Reivax Contracting Corp. of Newark for replacement of a bridge over an underground stream at Elm and Orchard Streets in Westfield. The county reported in a press release issued in January 2016 that it received a Local Aid Grant of $750,000 from the New Jersey Department of Transportation under the agency’s Local Bridges Future Needs Program. “The existing bridge was built in 1926. It is similar to a culvert and the work will involve addressing underground utilities. The entire bridge will be removed and replaced,” according to the press release. The board also will vote on a resolution to approve a waiver of the county’s employee residency requirement for newly-hired county manager Ed Oatman, a resident of Woodbridge. Mr. Oatman, who attended Thursday’s meeting, will start on Thursday, March 1. Resolutions also will be on the agenda for appointments to county advisory boards. Locally, Fanwood Councilman Jack Molenaar, Garwood Councilman Joe Sarno, former Mountainside councilman Robert W. Messler, all delegates, and current engineer Michael Disko, Jr. of Mountainside, alternate; David Judd, delegate, and Marvin Gersten, alternate, will be named to the Union County Transportation Advisory Board for one-year terms. Garwood Councilman Rich McCormack will be appointed to the Union County Air Traffic and Noise Advisory Board for a two-year term.

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(state) Superior Court. The planning board is charged with enforcing our land use ordinances,” Mr. Newell said. Historic Preservation Commission Chairwoman Kelly Kessler said the proposed driveways were not consistent with the neighborhood. Ms. Kessler said the driveways combined surface area “looks like one large road.” Resident Meagan Jackson said the neighborhood “is a very unique area. Consider the 100-year-old Sycamore trees.” Planning Board members Francis Smith, Tom Walsh, Mr. Newell, Darielle Walsh and Bill West voted for the variance approval and subsequent subdivision approval. The four planning board members not supporting the variance relief, and voting no, were Mayor Brindle, Councilwoman Linda Habgood, Anastasia Harrison and Mr. LaPlace. Mr. Hehl said per town ordinance an the applicant does not have to adhere to site-plan review, but that the applicant is willing to review plans with the siteplan review committee, Tree Preservation Commission and the Board of Architectural Review.

Addams CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

that the Westfield “community has been awesome” with support on social media and he looks forward to reopening. The restaurant closed December 15 as part of a court matters in which the landlord, Tarta Luna Properties, owned by Norm Greco, is suing The Town of Westfield, Construction Official Steve Freedman and Harvest Restaurant Group. Tarta Luna has both a law division and chancery division suit against Harvest, and is claiming in part that damage was done to the building and the neighboring building during construction of the restaurant, making conditions unsafe. Court documents also allege that town officials should not have provided a Certificate of Occupancy to the restaurant due to the unsafe conditions and that stop work orders were not enforced.

CRANFORD — Four of the seven Democratic candidates for Congress representing the 7th District of New Jersey talked about their platform aimed at unseating five-term incumbent Republican Leonard Lance at a candidate meet-and-greet event held Tuesday in a packed meeting room in the Cranford Community Center. Goutam Jois of Summit, Tom Malinowski of Rocky Hill, David Pringle of Cranford and Scott Salmon of Scotch Plains answered questions from the public. Peter Jacob of Union, Lisa Mandelblatt of Westfield and Linda Weber of Berkeley Heights also are running on the Democratic ticket and will participate in a similar forum at 7 p.m. on Thursday, February 22, also at the Community Center. The candidates at Tuesday’s forum gave their views on the environment, infrastructure, taxes, gun control, ethics, and campaign finance reform. A priority of Mr. Salmon, who is an attorney and also has worked on state and Presidential campaigns, is to stop the effects of climate change, saying the environment is “one of the biggest issues of my lifetime.” Mr. Salmon said he has a $1-trillion infrastructure plan, and suggested a high-speed rail such as one used in Japan, rebuilding power grids, building more efficient power lines, and other approaches. The lack of support on environmental issues is “systematic of a deeper problem,” said Mr. Jois, an attorney who has worked on cases for human rights and free speech. “Leonard Lance doesn’t have the integrity to take a position on contentious issues of our time,” Mr. Jois said. Mr. Pringle, who is an environmental and public health advocate, said Mr. Lance, though he supported environmental initiatives a decade ago, has now “abandoned all principles.” Mr. Lance was a state lawmaker prior to being elected to Congress in 2008. One question posed was how the candidates would stand up to President Donald Trump. Mr. Salmon said Congress needs a moral leadership that can bridge the divide. Mr. Jois agreed, saying Congress needs to find a common ground and have a “united front to stand up to Trump.” Mr. Pringle said he has fought big corporations such as Exxon, and locally he is supporting Fanwood Mayor Colleen Mahr in her run for

Union County Democratic chair, saying there is an “Old Boys Club” in Union County. Mr. Malinowski said if Democrats controlled one house in Congress they could defend the core institutions, such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation, that are under attack. As assistant secretary of state under President Barack Obama, Mr. Malinowski was involved in preserving evidence to get an investigation underway on Russia’s involvement in the 2016 Presidential election. Mr. Malinowski, who emigrated from Poland to New Jersey at age 6 with his mother, said if he was elected to Congress he would “not allow this administration to inject racism...fear of the immigrant into our law enforcement policy, our immigration policy...” When asked which committee each would choose to serve on should he be elected, Mr. Pringle said he would choose the Energy and Commerce Committee, Mr. Salmon said the House Ethics Committee, and Mr. Malinowski said the Ways and Means Committee. In response to budgetary questions, Mr. Pringle said he would cut the Pentagon budget to aid cost savings and repeal the tax plan passed by Republicans at the end of 2017 and signed by President Trump. Tax reform and adding a new tax bracket for those making $750,000 a year was mentioned by Mr. Salmon. Corporate subsidies should be redirected to education, health care and the environment, Mr. Jois said. Mr. Malinowski said he would like to see the tax bill replaced and repealed, calling the tax bill “economic malpractice.” In response to gun reform, Mr. Malinowski said gun laws should focus on “sensible reform” such as universal background checks and banning bump stocks. Mr. Pringle said there should be “appropriate regulations,” further saying legislation should be passed that would ban guns for those who are mentally disturbed, on terrorist watch lists, and domestic abusers. Mr. Salmon said private gun sellers should have access to a national federal database to conduct background checks on their buyers. All four candidates agreed there has to be bipartisan support of funding a tunnel for rail transit into New York. The Primary Election is Tuesday, June 5.

Borough Awaits Grants; Hiring Animal Control Off. By MICHAEL BONACCORSO Specially Written for The Westfield Leader

Sarah McGrail for The Westfield Leader

CONCERNED PARENT...Fraidy Reiss addresses the Westfield Board of Education Tuesday night regarding the removal by police of her daughter, Avigail, and her service dog, Logan, on January 3 from a school bus. Avigail attends a private school in Mountainside.

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A FULL SLATE...A crowd gathers to listen to four of the seven Democratic candidates for Congress representing the 7th District of New Jersey aimed at unseating Republican Leonard Lance on Tuesday in the Cranford Community Center. Goutam Jois of Summit, Tom Malinowski of Rocky Hill, David Pringle of Cranford and Scott Salmon of Scotch Plains answered questions from the public. Candidates Peter Jacob, Lisa Mandelblatt and Linda Weber will participate in a separate event.

MOUNTAINSIDE — Mayor Paul N. Mirabelli and the borough council on Tuesday discussed a request from Regency International to conduct a tent sale at 1112 Bristol Road. Regency International sells Christmas Trees, trimming materials and other holiday-oriented products during the winter months, stated Borough Administrator James J. Debbie, Jr. During the spring and summer months the company sells pottery and silk flowers, among other seasonal supplies, Mr. Debbie said. Mayor Mirabelli said municipal responses to business requests occupying the open space is usually no. “No retail, no retail, is our mantra. I always tell people, when you see grass along Route 22 that is when you know you are in Mountainside,” Mayor Mirabelli said. The mayor said he was not closed off to hearing more details, such as if the business was interested in donating items back to the community. The borough will donate $300,000 to Governor Livingston High School’s Project Graduation. The event takes place graduation night, promoting a drug-free and alcohol-free environment for graduates to enjoy their accomplishments, the mayor said. Mountainside teenagers attend the Berkeley Heights high school. “We give it (the donation) every year. We make sure they (the graduates) have a lot of fun,” Mr. Mirabelli said. Mayor Mirabelli said the borough will analyze details regarding the possible purchase of a 2018 Ford

Escape SE for $22,107. The vehicle would be in service for 10 to 15 years, replacing a “very old vehicle,” the mayor said. The mayor said he and Mr. Debbie will review prudent financing possibilities pending the upcoming budget preparation. Mountainside is hoping to receive $5,000 from the state’s Highway Safety Program and $2,000 from the Volunteer Fire Assistance Grant, Mr. Debbie said. He said no numbers have been finalized for the spending plan as the borough awaits revenue from the distribution of grants from state entities. Mountainside will renew a contract with Animal Control Solutions, Mr. Debbie said. Animal Control Solutions handles animal-control issues including responding when animals are killed by traffic. Animal Control Solutions replaced the defunct Associated Humane Societies in Newark, stated Mr. Debbie. Mayor Mirabelli stated a 25-percent increase in service costs for animal-control services is quite steep and questioned why the increase will become so sharp over two years. Mr. Debbie said Animal Control Solutions says its operation expenses, such as insurances costs, was the reason for the increase. Mr. Debbie said Mountainside will train an animal cruelty officer who will be responsible for responding to animal abuse claims reported to the police department. It was noted that the position is becoming a municipal responsibility throughout New Jersey after state departments and initiatives have been defunded.

Scotch Plains Council Set To Rename Zoo Property By FRED T. ROSSI Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times

SCOTCH PLAINS — The township council later this month is expected to approve changing the name of the former Terry-Lou Zoo property to Frazee House Park. The six-acre lot, which has been a municipal property since the late 1990s, contains the Revolutionary War-era Frazee House that is set to be refurbished by the Fanwood-Scotch Plains Rotary Club. After sitting unused for years, and serving as a dumping site for

debris from Hurricane Sandy in 2012, the property is now the site of the Scotch Plains-Fanwood community garden, and a series of gravel walking paths also wind their way through the property, which is envisioned to be a passive park. At Tuesday’s council meeting, Township Manager Al Mirabella said the new name would be “more appropriate,” a notion echoed by Deputy Mayor Llewellyn Jones, who noted the “significant history” of the nearly 300-yearold Frazee House. The council is ex-

Courtesy of Tom Kranz

GOING RED...The fourth annual Go Red Women’s Health Fair was held last Friday at The Chelsea at Fanwood. The event was part of the nationwide “Go Red” campaign by the American Heart Association to raise awareness of heart disease, the number-one cause of death in women. The event featured healthy food, speakers on heart health awareness for women, vendors, chair massages, an acupuncturist and free blood pressure screenings by the Fanwood Volunteer Rescue Squad. Mayor Colleen Mahr, center right, also stopped by.

After Busy 2017, Zoning Board Faces Light Agenda By FRED T. ROSSI Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times

SCOTCH PLAINS — After a year dominated by numerous hearings on a variety of applications pertaining to cellular telephone antenna installations, the zoning board of adjustment has started off 2018 with a light workload. At its second meeting of the year last week, there were no applications on the board’s agenda, the same situation as at its January 11 meeting. Board Secretary Shannon Rapant told The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times that a tentative agenda for the board’s Thursday, March 1 meeting includes a fence application and another application to install a swimming pool. At its brief February 1 meeting, the

board memorialized several resolutions from the January 11 meeting, including appointing Vincent Loughlin to serve again as board attorney, a post he has held for a number of years. Other long-time consultants also were reappointed, with Ferriero Engineering continuing as the board’s engineer and Mary Moody as the board’s planner. Given last week’s light agenda, the board went into executive session — “an opportune time to do so,” said Board Vice-Chairman Rich Duthie — so that Mr. Loughlin could lead the five members present in a training session pertaining to zoning and other relevant issues. Township Zoning Officer Robert LaCosta also was present to answer any questions.

pected to pass a resolution changing the name at its Tuesday, February 20 meeting. Councilman John Del Sordi, Jr. agreed with the new name but said he would still favor some type of signage remembering the zoo, which was in operation from the 1940s until the 1990s. Councilwoman Rose Checchio agreed, and Councilman Ted Spera said a historical sign explaining the property’s history will include a reference to its former status as a zoo. In other business, Mr. Mirabella will look into the feasibility of switching the twice-yearly sewer utility payments to just once a year. Citing the costs involved in mailing out bills to property owners for the second payment, and the further mailing expense for delinquent notices, the manager said residents often remember to pay the first installment but forget the second. Last year, the township sent out about 3,000 notices of delinquent payments, Mr. Mirabella said. Councilman Del Sordi wondered if the sewer payment date could somehow be aligned with the due dates for property-tax payments, while Councilwoman Checchio cautioned that some residents, due to their financial constraints, may prefer making two separate payments several months apart. The council gave its formal approval on Tuesday to the fair share housing agreement that was recently settled with several builders that will result in 598 affordable-housing units being built in several locations over the next seven years. A clause was added to the resolution empowering the council to adjust the housing numbers if, in the future, the State Legislature takes action that results in housing obligations being lowered on municipalities. Police Chief Ted Conley announced that the “Cops and Kids” after-school program will return later this month and in March at the two middle schools. It will involve gymnasium activities between students and police officers and will take place after school at Terrill Middle School on Tuesdays, February 20 and March 13, and at Park Middle School on dates that are yet to be determined. Margaret Heisey, the township’s special projects coordinator, said a new lunch program for senior citizens will get underway on Tuesday, March 20, at Shady Rest. Sponsored by Union County, the program will take place on Tuesdays and will be available to anyone over age 60. Signups will be via the township recreation department. There CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

By CHRISTINA M. HINKE

Christina M. Hinke for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times

WESTFIELD WEST

Developments Underway; Borough To Seek Proposals for Study By CHRISTINA M. HINKE Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times

FANWOOD — The borough council’s redevelopment advisor, Elizabeth Jeffery, on Monday explained a resolution the council will vote on at its next meeting that would agree to submit a request for proposals for planning services to study the Old South Avenue corridor. In the Fanwood Development and Business Update its states the planner would be tasked with determining how to “best revitalize” the area, taking into consideration grants for streetscape improvements, an overall pedestrian connectivity, the nearby Plainfield/Netherwood community to the west and the Fanwood downtown to the east. Vacating Old South Avenue and zoning also would be reviewed. “It requires a more comprehensive look,” Ms. Jeffery said of the Old South Avenue corridor. Other developments also are underway. Station Square at Fanwood has received a building permit for Building 1, Ms. Jeffery said. Site work for the expansion of Frank’s Auto Body has begun. Empire Properties, which purchased the former Young’s

NJ-7th Dem Congressional Cands. Participate In Forum Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times

A FULL SLATE...A crowd gathers to listen to four of the seven Democratic candidates for Congress representing the 7th District of New Jersey aimed at unseating Republican Leonard Lance on Tuesday in the Cranford Community Center. Goutam Jois of Summit, Tom Malinowski of Rocky Hill, David Pringle of Cranford and Scott Salmon of Scotch Plains answered questions from the public. Candidates Peter Jacob, Lisa Mandelblatt and Linda Weber will participate in a separate event.

Courtesy of Borough of Fanwood

EXCHANGING IDEAS...Members of the Mayors Task Force of the Raritan Valley Rail Coalition (RVRC) recently met to discuss their goals and ideas for the Raritan Valley Line. Please see story on Page 3.

CRANFORD — Four of the seven Democratic candidates for Congress representing the 7th District of New Jersey talked about their platform aimed at unseating five-term incumbent Republican Leonard Lance at a candidate meet-and-greet event held Tuesday in a packed meeting room in the Cranford Community Center. Goutam Jois of Summit, Tom Malinowski of Rocky Hill, David Pringle of Cranford and Scott Salmon of Scotch Plains answered questions from the public. Peter Jacob of Union, Lisa Mandelblatt of Westfield and Linda Weber of Berkeley Heights also are running on the Democratic ticket and will participate in a similar forum at 7 p.m. on Thursday, February 22, also at the Community Center. The candidates at Tuesday’s forum gave their views on the environment, infrastructure, taxes, gun control, ethics, and campaign finance reform. A priority of Mr. Salmon, who is an attorney and also has worked on state and Presidential campaigns, is to stop the effects of climate change, saying the

environment is “one of the biggest issues of my lifetime.” Mr. Salmon said he has a $1-trillion infrastructure plan, and suggested a high-speed rail such as one used in Japan, rebuilding power grids, building more efficient power lines, and other approaches. The lack of support on environmental issues is “systematic of a deeper problem,” said Mr. Jois, an attorney who has worked on cases for human rights and free speech. “Leonard Lance doesn’t have the integrity to take a position on contentious issues of our time,” Mr. Jois said. Mr. Pringle, who is an environmental and public health advocate, said Mr. Lance, though he supported environmental initiatives a decade ago, has now “abandoned all principles.” Mr. Lance was a state lawmaker prior to being elected to Congress in 2008. One question posed was how the candidates would stand up to President Donald Trump. Mr. Salmon said Congress needs a moral leadership that can bridge the divide. Mr. Jois agreed, saying Congress needs to find a common ground and have a “united front to stand

Paint property, has hired architect James Guerra, whose concepts for a mixed-use development are to be reviewed by the zoning office next week. Construction is ongoing at 35 Second Street, which is slated for a mixeduse development. Lightbridge Academy is anticipating to open at the end of the month in the former home of Sun Tavern at 15 South Avenue. Planning also is underway for a new residential and retail development at 105 South Avenue, the former A&P Supermarket property. Sheelen’s Fish Company has had a soft opening at 383 South Avenue, the former home of the Seafare Chippery, and is doing well, Ms. Jeffery said. The market has fresh fish from New York, and also sells a variety of prepared foods, such as lobster rolls. A business roundtable is to be held every two months and will alternate mornings and evenings, with the next meeting to be held Wednesday, February 28, at 9:30 a.m., at the Fanwood Grille. Also, PSE&G is completing the relocation of utility poles to Martine Avenue, Ms. Jeffery said. Once completed, the old poles that run in the rear of properties along Martine Avenue will be removed and the finishing of the new pedestrian walkway there will be completed with hand-

rails, benches, planters and receptacles. New Jersey American Water (NJAW) is to complete its water main installation project by the end of February or early March, Borough Engineer Antonios Panagopoulos said. Patrick Bellone, a resident of North Avenue, where the installation is taking place, complained that the contractors for NJAW are working overnight hours and early morning hours. The contractors have been working the overnight and early-morning hours at least twice a week, for three months, Mr. Bellone said. He said the noise and flashing lights keep him up at night. Also, he said his outdoor faucet was turned on and left running all night long, and froze the ground, causing his partner to slip on the ice. He contacted NJAW, which said it would reimburse him for his water bill, but thus far he has not been reimbursed. The borough engineer said he would visit the site with a representative from NJAW. On another matter, Mr. Bellone also said the three-way stop sign at Sheelens Crossing, which was installed last year to aid in the safety of pedestrians crossing the roadway, has resulted in him being “T-boned at least twice.” “People aren’t really stopping,” Mr. Bellone said.

Freeholders to Vote Tonight On Courthouse Stairwell By PAUL J. PEYTON Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times

David B. Corbin for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times

THE EAGLE HAS LANDED....Brooks Crandall, a photographer for The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times and die-hard Philadelphia Eagles fan, stopped into the newspaper’s offices on Monday after arriving back from a Super Bowl party in Philadelphia to celebrate his team’s first Super Bowl championship.

Borough Awaits Grants; Hiring Animal Control Off. By MICHAEL BONACCORSO Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times

MOUNTAINSIDE — Mayor Paul N. Mirabelli and the borough council on Tuesday discussed a request from Regency International to conduct a tent sale at 1112 Bristol Road. Regency International sells Christmas Trees, trimming materials and other holiday-oriented products during the winter months, stated Borough Administrator James J. Debbie, Jr. During the spring and summer months the company sells pottery and silk flowers, among other seasonal supplies, Mr. Debbie said. Mayor Mirabelli said municipal responses to business requests occupying the open space is usually no. “No retail, no retail, is our mantra. I always tell people, when you see grass along Route 22 that is when you know you are in Mountainside,” Mayor Mirabelli said. The mayor said he was not closed off to hearing more details, such as if the business was interested in donating items back to the community. The borough will donate $300,000 to Governor Livingston High School’s Project Graduation. The event takes place graduation night, promoting a drug-free and alcohol-free environment for graduates to enjoy their accomplishments, the mayor said. Mountainside teenagers attend the Berkeley Heights high school. “We give it (the donation) every year. We make sure they (the graduates) have a lot of fun,” Mr. Mirabelli said. Mayor Mirabelli said the borough will analyze details regarding the possible purchase of a 2018 Ford

Escape SE for $22,107. The vehicle would be in service for 10 to 15 years, replacing a “very old vehicle,” the mayor said. The mayor said he and Mr. Debbie will review prudent financing possibilities pending the upcoming budget preparation. Mountainside is hoping to receive $5,000 from the state’s Highway Safety Program and $2,000 from the Volunteer Fire Assistance Grant, Mr. Debbie said. He said no numbers have been finalized for the spending plan as the borough awaits revenue from the distribution of grants from state entities. Mountainside will renew a contract with Animal Control Solutions, Mr. Debbie said. Animal Control Solutions handles animal-control issues including responding when animals are killed by traffic. Animal Control Solutions replaced the defunct Associated Humane Societies in Newark, stated Mr. Debbie. Mayor Mirabelli stated a 25-percent increase in service costs for animal-control services is quite steep and questioned why the increase will become so sharp over two years. Mr. Debbie said Animal Control Solutions says its operation expenses, such as insurances costs, was the reason for the increase. Mr. Debbie said Mountainside will train an animal cruelty officer who will be responsible for responding to animal abuse claims reported to the police department. It was noted that the position is becoming a municipal responsibility throughout New Jersey after state departments and initiatives have been defunded.

Plans in Approval Process For Addams Tavern By LAUREN S. BARR Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times

WESTFIELD – In a piece of potentially good news for the Westfield foodies, Addams Tavern owner Chip Grabowski told The Scotch PlainsFanwood Times that, “if all goes well,” the popular eatery could reopen in 90 days. Mr. Grabowski told The Times that all of the drawings for the courtrequired work will be completed today (Thursday) for submission to the landlord and town building department. He said the process has taken a bit longer, but that they wanted to “make sure all our t’s are crossed and our i’s are dotted.” Harvest Restaurant Group, the parent company of Addams Tavern, was able to accommodate all of the events

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scheduled at Addams, and while a few employees chose to leave, Mr. Grabowski said that the majority of Addams’ employees were relocated to other Harvest restaurants. He added that the Westfield “community has been awesome” with support on social media and he looks forward to reopening. The restaurant closed December 15 as part of a court matters in which the landlord, Tarta Luna Properties, owned by Norm Greco, is suing The Town of Westfield, Construction Official Steve Freedman and Harvest Restaurant Group. Tarta Luna has both a law division and chancery division suit against Harvest, and is claiming in part that damage was done to the building and the neighboring building during construction of the restaurant, making conditions unsafe. Court documents also allege that town officials should not have provided a Certificate of Occupancy to the restaurant due to the unsafe conditions and that stop work orders were not enforced.

COUNTY — Union County is set to move ahead with its courthouse tower project with the awarding of a $19million construction contract at tonight’s freeholders meeting. The freeholders are expected to vote to approve a contract with Millburnbased GPC, Inc. The company was previously given an $840,000 contract two years ago for improvements to the radio room in the courthouse tower. Joseph Graziano, director of the Department of Engineering, Public Works and Facilities Management, said the county was first told it needed to address safety concerns of the state regarding the tower in 2000. The state had threatened to close the building due to fire code violations and later ordered the county to add a second egress. Mr. Graziano said the county spent around a million dollars in developing plans for an exterior stairwell. “Because at the time that was what we were considering,” Mr. Graziano said in responding to questions from Freeholder Angel Estrada. The county decided against an exterior stairwell for safety reasons. The county later opted to construct an interior stairwell and to build a separate 78,000-square-foot family courthouse on Cherry Street in Elizabeth, a $38.6-million facility with seven courtrooms and judges’ chambers and offices for the county’s improvement authority. That facility opened last year. Mr. Graziano said GPC came in 12.5 percent, or $2.3 million, under the county’s engineer’s estimated budget for the tower project. He said the lowest three or four bids from prospective contractors were “very, very tight” while the higher two bids were “pretty much off the scale.” He estimated construction will start around March and will take three years to complete. It will start with the courthouse rotunda and proceed to the tower. “This project has to happen...We do need another form of egress,” he said. “God forbid something happens to one of our employees.” Freeholder Al Mirabella asked if the project would present a problem to

members of the public. Mr. Graziano said the county has been working with the state courts administration to move employees out of areas as the construction is done, noting that the project will be completed one floor at a time and during evening hours. In addition to the construction contract, the county has spent $3.7 million in architectural and engineering services with Netta Architects of Mountainside and another $1.9 million on construction management services with Mast Construction Services of Little Falls for the project, according to a check of county agendas. In other business, the freeholders also will vote tonight to award a $638,000 contract to Reivax Contracting Corp. of Newark for replacement of a bridge over an underground stream at Elm and Orchard Streets in Westfield. The county reported in a press release issued in January 2016 that it received a Local Aid Grant of $750,000 from the New Jersey Department of Transportation under the agency’s Local Bridges Future Needs Program. “The existing bridge was built in 1926. It is similar to a culvert and the work will involve addressing underground utilities. The entire bridge will be removed and replaced,” according to the press release. The board also will vote on a resolution to approve a waiver of the county’s employee residency requirement for newly-hired county manager Ed Oatman, a resident of Woodbridge. Mr. Oatman, who attendedThursday’s meeting, will start on Thursday, March 1. Resolutions also will be on the agenda for appointments to county advisory boards. Locally, Fanwood Councilman Jack Molenaar, Garwood Councilman Joe Sarno, former Mountainside councilman Robert W. Messler, all delegates, and current engineer Michael Disko, Jr. of Mountainside, alternate; David Judd, delegate, and Marvin Gersten, alternate, will be named to the Union County Transportation Advisory Board for one-year terms. Garwood Councilman Rich McCormack will be appointed to the Union CountyAir Traffic and Noise Advisory Board for a two-year term.

7th District Candidates CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

up to Trump.” Mr. Pringle said he has fought big corporations such as Exxon, and locally he is supporting Fanwood Mayor Colleen Mahr in her run for Union County Democratic chair, saying there is an “Old Boys Club” in Union County. Mr. Malinowski said if Democrats controlled one house in Congress they could defend the core institutions, such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation, that are under attack. As assistant secretary of state under President Barack Obama, Mr. Malinowski was involved in preserving evidence to get an investigation underway on Russia’s involvement in the 2016 Presidential election. Mr. Malinowski, who emigrated from Poland to New Jersey at age 6 with his mother, said if he was elected to Congress he would “not allow this administration to inject racism...fear of the immigrant into our law enforcement policy, our immigration policy...” When asked which committee each would choose to serve on should he be elected, Mr. Pringle said he would choose the Energy and Commerce Committee, Mr. Salmon said the House Ethics Committee, and Mr. Malinowski said the Ways and Means Committee. In response to budgetary questions, Mr. Pringle said he would cut the Pentagon budget to aid cost savings and repeal the tax plan passed by Republicans at the end of 2017 and signed by President Trump. Tax reform and adding a new tax bracket for those making $750,000 a year was mentioned by Mr. Salmon. Corporate subsidies should be redirected to education, health care and the environment, Mr. Jois said. Mr. Malinowski said he would like to see the tax bill replaced and repealed, calling the tax

bill “economic malpractice.” In response to gun reform, Mr. Malinowski said gun laws should focus on “sensible reform” such as universal background checks and banning bump stocks. Mr. Pringle said there should be “appropriate regulations,” further saying legislation should be passed that would ban guns for those who are mentally disturbed, on terrorist watch lists, and domestic abusers. Mr. Salmon said private gun sellers should have access to a national federal database to conduct background checks on their buyers. All four candidates agreed there has to be bipartisan support of funding a tunnel for rail transit into New York. The Primary Election is June 5.

Zoo Property CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

is no charge, but a small donation of $1.75 is being recommended. At the start of the meeting, Councilwoman Checchio read a resolution proclaiming February as Black History Month. Mayor Alexander Smith said it was appropriate that the refurbished Shady Rest Club House at Scotch Hills Country Club will re-open later this month after a long renovation to the historic building’s exterior and interior. The council then held an executive session. Among the items set to be discussed was the possible acquisition of the Highland Swim Club property on Martine Avenue. In executive sessions after its January 2 and January 16 meetings, the council talked about the same property, although there has been no word on what the governing body envisions for the site.

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VALENTINE GREETINGS...Student members of the Union County 4-H Dog Lovers Club recently put their hearts and hands into a community service project, silkscreening and painting dozens of handmade Valentine’s Day cards for an Air Force National Guard company adopted by the club. The company is stationed at McGuire Air Force Base and currently is deployed overseas. Displaying a sample card alongside their mothers are club members Kaelin Tricoche, left, and Emily Del Monte, right. A program of the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Union County supported in part by the Freeholder Board, Union County 4-H Clubs foster leadership, civic engagement and other life skills for students in grades 1 to 12. For more information, contact 4-H Agent Jim Nichnadowicz at [email protected] or (908) 654-9854, or visit online at ucnj.org/rce.

Six Arrested After Refusing To Leave Lance’s Office By PAUL J. PEYTON Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times

WESTFIELD — Police arrested six protestors, including clergy members, Monday after they refused to leave the North Avenue office of Congressman Leonard Lance (R-7th, Westfield). According to police, those charged were the Reverend Ann Ralosky, 54, senior minister at the First Congregational Church in Montclair and a Montclair resident; Rabbi Elliott Tepperman, 49, of B’nai Keshet in Montclair, a West Orange resident; Pastor John Rogers, 29, of First Congregational Church in Montclair and a resident of Montclair; Rabbi Faith Dantowitz, 52, of B’nai Abraham in Livingston, a resident of Millburn; Kristin Peck, 65, of Maplewood, a member of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Summit, and Nedia Morsy, 25, of Hillside, an organizer at Make the Road New Jersey, an immigrants’ rights group in Elizabeth. All were charged with defiant trespass. They were processed and each was released with a summons pending a court date, the Westfield Police Department confirmed. According to news reports, police were summoned by Mr. Lance’s staff when the group refused to leave the office until they had received an answer from the Congressman, who was not in the office at the time, that he would vote in favor of a “clean DREAM Act.” DREAM is an acronym for Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors. The legislative proposal would qualify alien minors in the United States by first granting them conditional residency and, upon meeting further qualifications, permanent residency. Mr. Lance’s spokesman said the Congressman is the co-sponsor of “clean” legislation concerning DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) recipients – H.R. 1468. He also said the Congressman supports bipartisan solutions to break the impasse over DACA, including the Problem

Solvers’proposal. Mr. Lance and New Jersey Democratic representative Josh Gottheimer (D-5th) are both members of the Problem Solvers Caucus. When asked for comment on the arrests, press secretary John Byers released the following statement: “Congressman Lance has great respect for our state clergy and is happy to meet with the congregation at a time that is mutually convenient for both parties as he has done with other religious leaders and groups on numerous occasions.” He said Mr. Lance’s staff offered to schedule a meeting with the Congressman, even though he does not represent Montclair, in either New Jersey or Washington. “That offer was ignored,” Mr. Byers said in an e-mail. He said the protestors requested to be arrested, saying the group had called Westfield police earlier in the day to notify them they were coming and research what charges would be brought against them.

Lance’s 46th Town Hall Sat. In Bridgewater WESTFIELD — Congressman Leonard Lance (R-7th, Westfield) announced yesterday that he will host his 46th in-person town hall meeting this Saturday, February 10, beginning at 9 a.m., at Bridgewater-Raritan Middle School in Bridgewater. During the town hall meeting, Mr. Lance will take questions on the important issues facing Congress and the American people. Mr. Lance will discuss government funding, national security, the Robert Mueller investigation, his leadership role in combating sexual harassment, the successful reauthorization of the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and other issues. Additionally, members of Mr. Lance’s staff will be available to assist residents who are experiencing difficulties with federal agencies such as the IRS, Social Security Administration, Veterans Affairs, the State Department or any other federal agency.

Westfield Teen, Service Dog Removed From School Bus By SARAH MCGRAIL Specially Written for The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Times

WESTFIELD —AWestfield schoolgirl and her service dog were removed by police from a school bus, a mother claimed at Tuesday’s board of education meeting. But Board President Gretchan Ohlig said the district and the bus company had a responsibility to ensure that other children on the bus were not allergic to dogs. Fraidy Reiss, of Edgar Road, said her daughter, Avigail, boarded the school bus on January 3 with her service dog, Logan, but was told she was not allowed to travel with the dog. Ms. Reiss said she got on the bus to explain to the bus driver that she had resolved the issue with the school district but, after half an hour, the bus company called the police. “The police removed my daughter and the service dog from the bus that morning,” Ms. Reiss told the board. “It took me a full week to persuade the district to drive my daughter and her service dog to school. “Special Services have gone out of their way to do everything they can, in violation of federal and state law and human decency, to bar my daughter from going to school with her service dog,” Ms. Reiss said. Avigail, 18, told board members, “The feeling of waking up in the morning, walking outside and thinking you can go to school but then being told you can’t, being stopped and then watching all the other children on the school bus being taken off in front of you and basically being told you’re doing something wrong somehow, of course that makes me feel bad. It’s not fair. It’s not fair to me and to anyone else in my position.” Ms. Reiss said the district had been aware that her daughter would be getting a service dog since May, but she had not been informed that any special paperwork would be required. “Avigail, I am very sorry you were put in that situation. You are absolutely

entitled to the same education that everyone in this district gets, and I apologize if you felt otherwise,” Ms. Ohlig responded. Responding to Ms. Reiss, Ms. Ohlig said, “A second bus had to come and I’m sure that was disturbing for you and really upsetting for your daughter that a second bus had to take all the other children and the police had to get involved.” Ms. Ohlig explained that the bus served multiple children from around the area and, before a service dog could travel on the bus, their parents had to be contacted to check there were no allergies or phobias to dogs. “We have an obligation to all the children who ride that bus, as does the bus company,” she said. Avigail Reiss first traveled to Cornerstone Day School, a private school in Mountainside, with her dog on January 2. Ms. Reiss said that, within hours, she started getting e-mails and calls from the district saying the dog could not travel on the school bus until she submitted verification that it was a service dog. She said that she provided the required information proving the dog had its license and was in good health on January 2, but Avigail and Logan were still prevented from traveling to school on January 3. Ms. Ohlig said that January 4 was a snow day and that, by the following day, the district had spoken to the parents of all the other children on the bus and was “good to go.” Ms. Reiss asked the board to apologize to her and her daughter, to review its policy regarding service dogs, and to pay the legal expenses of $9,000 she has incurred fighting the case. Earlier in the meeting, the board heard that work to refurbish the middle-school auditoriums has almost been completed. Bids would be invited for the work on Kehler Stadium this week, and it is hoped this will start in May and be completed by August 31.

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Thursday, February 8, 2018

The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES

Union County Democrats to Vote Feb. 21 for New Chair

Peyton's

Peek at the Week In Politics

By Paul Peyton of The Leader/Times

Mapp Chief of Staff Quits Over ‘Lack of Transparency’ As the battle continues for the chairmanship of the Union County Democratic Committee, John Stewart, Jr. has resigned as Plainfield Mayor Adrian Mapp’s chief of staff over a “lack of transparency” at City Hall, according to a Tap of Plainfield report. Several city council members are said to be angry with Mr. Mapp’s endorsement of State Senator Nick Scutari (D-22nd, Linden) over Fanwood Mayor Colleen Mahr for county chair. The election is set for Wednesday, February 21 in Clark. Insidenj.com has reported that Plainfield Councilman Sean McKenna, vice-chair of the Plainfield Democratic City Committee (PDCC), called Mr. Mapp’s endorsement of Mr. Scutari a “backroom deal that will yield results for a handful of people and their personal ambitions, at the expense of Plainfield.” Insidenj.com reported that Mary Burgwinkle, PDCC treasurer, in an email to PDCC members, said she was “sad and disappointed” Mr. Mapp endorsed Mr. Scutari “in advance of calling a PDCC or executive committee meeting to discuss this important matter.” Mayor Mapp is chairman of the PDCC.Mayor Mapp has said keeping a Assembly seat in Plainfield, the county’s third largest city, was very important to him. Justice Dept. Dropping Charges Against Sen. Menendez Bloomberg has reported that U.S. prosecutors have dropped a federal corruption case against U.S. Senator Robert Menendez (D-N.J.) and will not retry him after a divided jury failed to reach a verdict last year. The decision by prosecutors comes after a federal judge last month tossed seven of the 18 major charges against Sen. Menendez and co-defendant, Salomon Melgen, a Florida eye doctor, was accused of bribing him in exchange for political favors. U.S. District Judge William Walls ruled that Sen. Menendez was not guilty on four criminal counts, but had kept other bribery and fraud charges open to be including as part of a new trial.

Trump Approval Gains In New Monmouth U. Poll A new Monmouth University Poll has found that President Donald Trump’s job approval rating has bounced back from the record low in a December poll as more Americans now see the President as having achieved some legislative success. President Trump’s job rating now stands at 42 percent approve and 50 percent disapprove, an improvement from his December low of 32 percent approve and 56 percent disapprove. “If the election for House of Representatives were held today, 47 percent of registered voters say they would vote for or lean toward voting for the Democratic candidate in their district compared to 45 percent who would support the Republican. This marks a dramatic shift from last month, when Democrats held a 15point advantage on the generic ballot, 51 percent to 36 percent,” according to the press release. GOP State Lawmakers Eying Run for Frelinghuysen Seat A number of potential Republican candidates are said to be mulling runs for the 11th Congressional District of retiring veteran Congressman Rodney Frelinghuysen (R). Senator Joseph Pennachio (R-26th, Monville) announced this week that he will not be a candidate while Assemblyman Jay Webber (R-26th, Parsippany) has said he will be running. Assemblyman Anthony Bucco (R-25th, Randolph), who has formed an exploratory committee, is also considering entering the race. Senator Sen. Kristin Corrado (R40, Wayne), the former Passaic County clerk, and Kate Whitman Annis also are reported to be looking at possible candidacies. Ms. Whitman Annis, a Morristown resident, lost in the 2008 GOP Primary to Congressman Leonard Lance (R7th) in the 7th District Primary. Mikie Sherrill, a retired Navy helicopter pilot and former federal prosecutor, is said to be the leading Democrat in the race. Union County Republicans to Hold Convention on March 10 The Union County Republican Committee will hold their convention Saturday, March 10 at the Kean University STEM Building in Union.

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WHO RUNS THE WORLD?...Fanwood Mayor Colleen Mahr, second from left in front row, served as a panelist on the “Who Runs the World? Girls! Power, Money, and Law” session during the New Jersey Planning Conference in New Brunswick on January 26. Other speakers included Union Township Committeewoman Michèle Delisfort; South Orange Village President Sheena C. Collum; Summit Mayor Nora Radest; Sherry L. Tracey, senior managing director of Phoenix Advisors LLC; Erin K. Law, partner of McManimon, Scotland & Baumann, LLC, and Lisa John-Basta, member of Chiesa Shahinian & Giantomasi, PC.

Mayors Unite to Press for Better Raritan Line Service REGION – Fanwood Mayor Colleen Mahr has announced that the Mayors Task Force of the Raritan Valley Rail Coalition (RVRC) has grown to include 26 communities along the Raritan Valley Rail line. Their common goal is to seek oneseat train service into New York Penn Station during peak hours. The Mayors Task Force, which is part of the RVRC, met recently in Westfield to map out a strategy to get support from Governor Phil Murphy, Transportation Commissioner Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti, and Senate and Assembly representatives to fund direct train service. RVRC successfully negotiated morning and evening direct trains but only during weekday off-peak hours. The RVRC, established in 1998, and the Mayors Task Force are committed to improving the commute for riders who struggle daily with service interruptions and time-consuming train and platform transfers on the RVL, according to the release. Martin Robins of Westfield, director emeritus of the Alan M. Voorhees Transportation Center at Rutgers University, said, “eliminating a transfer in Newark could save at least 12 minutes in total commuting time and the worry of missing a connection. That is a significant quality of life issue.” The RVRC said they will continue to work on a proposal to NJ Transit that would request direct trains during the peak periods. The Task Force is hoping Governor Murphy, Commissioner Gutierrez-Scaccetti and other elected officials will step in and support the request. “We are seeking equity and deserved improvements for our constituents,” said Mayor Mahr, co-chair of the task force. Scotch Plans Al Smith, who has also joined the task force, said, “Although Scotch Plains does not have a train station, many of our residents do use the Raritan Valley Line to commute to work. One-seat train service into New York Penn Station during

peak hours would be a great benefit to these riders and the community in general,” Mayor Smith said. Task Force Co-Chairs, Bound Brook Mayor Robert Fazen, Westfield Mayor Shelley Brindle and Mayor Mahr, in a joint statement, noted that quality transportation is enormous for towns. According to the Regional Plan Association, proximity to high quality transit is associated with increased property values, every minute saved on a morning commute to NYC increases nearby home values by $3,000, and efficient transportation is important to attracting business and employees. The Mayors also stressed the critical importance of the federal government funding the Gateway Project. “This is important for the RVL and North Jersey’s transportation system overall because the project will provide additional slots in New York Penn Station for Raritan Valley Line trains. Mayors and all elected officials, particularly those with a train station in their community, have a responsibility to speak out and demand safe, reliable and convenient transit. The continuing decline of rail infrastructure causes delays and safety concerns almost on a daily basis and it is no longer acceptable,” the mayors said. The Gateway Project includes construction of two new Hudson River tunnels, rehabilitation of the existing tunnels, additional tracks and platforms at New York Penn Station and the Portal Bridge replacement. Each of these improvements is necessary for a quality transportation system and the economy of this region. The Mayors’ Task Force plans a series of meetings with state legislators on improved service on the Raritan Valley Line and funding of the Gateway Project.

FANWOOD — Union County Democratic Committee (UCDC) Acting Chairwoman Colleen Mahr, the mayor of Fanwood, has announced that Wednesday, February 21 will be the date of the meeting to vote on the UCDC’s next permanent chair. The date was voted on at a meeting on January 31 with municipal chairs and UCDC officers per the organization by-laws to determine the date of the full committee meeting. During the February 21st meeting, which will begin at 7 p.m. and take place at the Grand Centurion in Clark, committee members will also be voting on the next vice-chair. In addition to Ms. Mahr, State Senator Nick Scutari (D-22nd, Linden) and Anthony Salters, the Hillside Democratic Chairman, have publicly declared their candidacies for county chairmanship. “February 21st will help ensure that committee members from throughout Union County have the opportunity to come and cast their vote for the next chair and vice-chair of our County Democratic Committee,” said Ms. Mahr. “Based on the

feedback, (Linden) Mayor (Derek) Armstead and I have gotten since we announced our candidacies, it is very clear that committee members recognize the tremendous importance of voting to set the direction for our organization moving forward. I’m looking forward to speaking with even more of our committee members over the next three weeks in advance of the vote to explain our vision for the party’s future. I am also uniquely committed to making sure our meeting on the 21st provides people with the opportunity to vote in a respectful, transparent environment that protects the integrity of each of our committee member’s votes.” Ms. Mahr previously announced her candidacy for the chair position and will be running with Mr. Armstead, who announced his candidacy for the position of UCDC vicechair. Ms. Mahr served as the elected vice-chair and running mate of Chairman Jerry Green, who is also an assemblyman representing the 22nd Legislative District) for the past five years, up until Mr. Green’s retirement from the position for health reasons last week.

NJT Plans to End Bus No. 95, Public Hearings Scheduled REGION — NJ Transit has proposed to discontinue all service on Bus Route No. 95 due to what it says is low ridership and the availability of ample alternative public transportation to facilitate these trips. The bus runs between weekdays during peak morning and evening commutes from Scotch Plains and Newark via points in Westfield, Mountainside, Springfield, and Union. The bus line operates only inbound towards Newark in the morning and only outbound towards Scotch Plains in the evening. Approximately 179 one-way customers per weekday use this service, which can be represented as 11 passengers per trip, according to NJT Transit. All affected customers would continue to have alternative bus service available to them should the No. 95 bus service be discontinued. NJ Transit will conduct public hearings to receive public comments on the proposed discontinuance of Bus Route No. 95. Written comments for the record may be sent to Public Hearing OfficeBus Route No. 95 Comments, NJ Transit, One Penn Plaza East, Newark, NJ 07105 or on NJ Transit’s

website, www.njtransit.com/ publichearings. All comments must be received no later than midnight, February 28. Individuals requesting sign language interpreters should contact the Public Hearing Office at (973) 4917453 or TTY (800) 772-2287 by this Monday, February 12. Individuals requesting language support should contact customer service at (973) 2755555 by February 12. Please be advised and assured that no final decision has been made regarding the proposed bus route discontinuance. The public’s views on this proposal as expressed at the hearings and through the written comment process will be presented to the NJ Transit board of directors prior to a final decision in this matter. Public hearings will be held as follows: Thursday, February 22, 6 p.m., NJ Transit Headquarters Board Room, One Penn Plaza East, Newark; and Tuesday, February 27 at 6 p.m. in council chambers, located on the first floor of the Scotch Plains Municipal Building, 430 Park Avenue, Scotch Plains, NJ.

SPF Rotary Close to Meeting Goal for Frazee Renovation SCOTCH PLAINS — The Scotch Plain-Fanwood Rotary Frazee House foundation is close to meeting the goal of necessary funds to start work on the exterior restoration of the Frazee House. The property (known, to longtime residents as the site of the Terry Lou Zoo) has already found a new life by the establishment of the Community Garden in 2015, the township’s recent landscaping and installation of walking paths, as well as the planting of wild flower meadows by the township’s Environmental Commission. The house, once on the “most endangered places” list in New Jersey, is a rare example of pre-revolution-

ary construction, and the Rotary Club pledged to save this house. Over the course of a number of years, the Frazee House foundation has made huge strides in planning the complete restoration. Now, after fundraisers and private contributions, as well as various competitive grants, the goal is in sight and the community is asked to take an active part in raising the funds to restore the exterior of the house to the crown jewel in Scotch Plains history. Signs will soon be soon be posted throughout town as the final push is made in the next 60 days to raise over $200,000.

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Michael Monahan Named Acting County Prosecutor

HONORING EMS PERSONNEL...EMS Council of New Jersey (EMSCNJ) officials and Keansburg officials broke ground on September 10, 2017 for the 9/11 memorial honoring emergency medical services personnel throughout the country who responded that fateful day. A September 2018 dedication is being planned. Michael A. Monahan

chief with the New Jersey Office of the Insurance Fraud Prosecutor, whereby he also supervised the office’s Auto Fraud Section. Mr. Monahan worked in private law practice during the late 1990s, and served as an assistant prosecutor with the Union County Prosecutor’s Office from 1991 into 1998. During that time he handled approximately 50 adult jury trials for crimes including attempted murder, robbery, aggravated assault, embezzlement, and others. Mr. Monahan was admitted to the New Jersey Bar Association in 1988 and has been a certified criminal trial attorney since 1997. He received a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Seton Hall University in South Orange in 1984 and earned a Juris Doctor from Seton Hall School of Law in Newark in 1988, having served as a member of the Seton Hall Law Review. Mr. Monahan lives in Cranford with his wife, Wanda, and their four sons.

Child-Luring Incident Reported In Cranford CRANFORD – The Cranford Police Department responded to a reported child-luring attempt on Centennial Avenue. The incident occurred at approximately 3:40 p.m. near the intersection of Buchanan Street. According to police, a juvenile female was walking home from school when a unknown male, in his late teens to early twenties, slowed down in traffic and asked the student twice if she wanted a ride home. The child refused and later contacted a family member, who reported the incident to authorities.

The driver, described as a thin white male with long black hair and shaved sides, never exited the vehicle or made physical contact with the child. The suspect’s vehicle was described as an older model white sedan. Cranford police detectives are actively attempting to gather video and surveillance from local businesses and residences. Anyone having information to assist with the investigation is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Matthew Nazzaro at (908) 709-4313 or Detective Michael Dubitsky at (908) 7097358.

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Scotch Plains Rescue Squad: Dealing with Sinusitis

NJ EMS Volunteers Seek Support for 9/11 Monument SAYREVILLE – EMS Council of New Jersey (EMSCNJ) officials are requesting financial contributions for the group’s 9/11 memorial honoring emergency medical services personnel throughout the country who responded that fateful day. Featuring a piece of World Trade Center steel, the Keansburg monument will be the country’s first dedicated exclusively to EMS individuals. “It’s a part of all of us,” EMSCNJ President Joseph G. Walsh, Jr. said. “The EMS effort on 9/11 and for weeks afterward, in New York, Washington, D.C. and Pennsylvania was unprecedented. Those who answered the call that day, without hesitation, deserve our respect and recognition. Those who perished, in particular, must not be forgotten.” Displayed alongside Keansburg’s 9/11 memorial, the monument will honor the dozens of EMS personnel who died September 11, 2001, as well as the countless New Jersey EMS volunteers and responders from several states who pitched in to help that day and in the rubble for weeks afterward, Mr. Walsh said. The view from the nearby Raritan Bay coastline dunes is the Manhattan skyline, which will help visitors appreciate the memorial’s significance, he added. The monument’s placement will be in direct sight line to where the Twin Towers stood. EMSCNJ and Keansburg officials broke ground for the monument September 10, 2017 before a crowd of more than 100 people, including Congressional, state and local dignitaries. A September 2018 dedication is in the works, Mr. Walsh said.

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well. Since the common cold is one of the causes of sinusitis, it’s important to take precautions against catching one. Wash hands frequently, eat healthily, and try to avoid people who are showing symptoms of a cold. The Scotch Plains Rescue Squad is a volunteer organization of Neighbors Helping Neighbors. With over 90 volunteers, we answer calls not only in Scotch Plains, but in surrounding towns as well when needed. Besides answering calls, you will see our ambulances at many special events held in town, such as Scotch Plains Day, the Memorial Day Parade, high school football games, and the summer concerts on the Village Green. We are also available to provide demonstrations for Boys and Girls Scout troops, clubs, and any other group that may be interested in what we do. In addition, we lend out wheelchairs, crutches, canes and other assorted medical equipment free of charge. Please reach out to us if there is something we can do for you. (908) 322-2103for non-emergencies or [email protected] * * * Contributing Author Susan Baldani is a life member of the Scotch Plains Rescue Squad.

LEGACY OF PRESIDENT WILSON...Before the State of the Union Address, Congressman Leonard Lance (R-7th, Westfield) was invited to the Library of Congress to deliver remarks on the legacy of President Woodrow Wilson, a former Democratic New Jersey governor. Carla Hayden, the Librarian of Congress, holds a reproduction of a newspaper headline announcing the 1913 State of the Union Address, which President Wilson reinstituted as an in-person speech to Congress. Mr. Lance and Ms. Hayden were joined by House Minority Whip Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) and former California Congresswoman Jane Harman, president of the Wilson Center.

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With its steel beam representing the spirit and resilience of the EMS responders, the memorial will include information about the attacks, and a seating area for quiet reflection, he added. More than 400 ambulances responded to either Liberty State Park or the Meadowlands on Sept. 11, 2001, Mr. Walsh said. From there, many EMSCNJ member ambulances were sent to Chelsea Pier for standby. Others were paired with New York Fire Department EMTs to respond to 911 calls in New York City. For weeks afterward, some volunteers continued assisting efforts at Ground Zero and others helped answer 911 calls in and around New York City. During that time, volunteer EMS crews continued answering calls for help in their own New Jersey municipalities. The 89-year-old nonprofit New Jersey State First Aid Council (NJSFAC), doing business as the EMSCNJ, represents 20,000 EMS volunteers affiliated with nearly 300 EMS agencies throughout the state. Those who would like to give a donation should make checks payable to “NJSFAC 9/11 Memorial” and mail them to Treasurer Ken Weinberg, P.O. Box 347, Pittstown, NJ 08867.

SCOTCH PLAINS – This past winter, many of us experienced not just the common cold, but sinusitis. As someone who has never had this before, I had no idea how painful it could be. Many of the symptoms mimic that of the common cold, with stuffy or runny nose, itchy eyes and nose, and sneezing and/or coughing. However, sinusitis also presents with pain around the eyes and nose, headache, postnasal drip, and even pain in the roof of the mouth and teeth. If these symptoms are still present after 10 days, if you have a fever, or if there are underlying health conditions such as asthma or bronchitis, a doctor needs to be seen. Sinusitis can also lead to infections, which can cause even more pain, earaches, sore throat, heavy green or yellow discharge, and swelling of the eye area. If this is the case, antibiotics will be needed. Otherwise, there are a few things that can be done at home. Massaging the eye area, using a humidifier to keep nostrils moist, and applying heat to the nose and eye area are a few of the most common treatments. There are also some over the counter sinus decongestants available, and some people find that cutting out dairy products cuts down on the mucus. Drinking more water and staying hydrated is important as

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COUNTY — Michael A. Monahan of Cranford was sworn in as acting prosecutor of Union County on January 31. As the chief law enforcement officer in Union County, Mr. Monahan oversees an office of 250 employees and an approximately $23.5 million budget, coordinating the law enforcement efforts of approximately 1,600 police officers in 21 local police departments, the Union County Sheriff’s Office, and the Union County Police Department. He was appointed by Attorney General Gurbir Grewal. Mr. Monahan replaces Ann Luvera who served as acting prosecutor for a few weeks following the resignation of Thomas Isenhour, a Middletown resident who had filled the role for a few months after Acting Prosecutor Grace Park of Westfield resigned to take a private sector position. Mr. Isenhour, who had served as Ms. Park’s first assistant prosecutor, resigned after he was appointed by Governor Chris Christie and confirmed by the State Senate as a Superior Court judge in Union County. Mr. Monahan most recently worked for the New Jersey Department of Law and Public Safety’s Division of Criminal Justice, having served as chief of the Division’s Financial and Computer Crimes Bureau from November 2013 until his appointment. In that role, he managed the daily operations of the bureau and supervised a staff of more than 70, handling an annual caseload of approximately 700. Prior to this, Mr. Monahan was deputy chief of the division’s Corruption Bureau, where he also had previously served as a deputy attorney general. From 2002 into 2007, Mr. Monahan served as assistant section

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Will Federal SALT Cap Cause Local Tax Hike, Spending Cuts? This month is the traditional kickoff of local and county budget meetings as our elected and appointed officials decide how much they will raise our taxes. As we all know, taxes never go down. But, with the new $10,000 cap on the State and Local Tax, known as SALT, deduction on federal tax returns, we encourage local leaders to do all they can to keep the increases in check this year. In his nj.com (Star-Ledger) column, Paul Mulshine notes those with high valued properties/real estate who were deducting as much as $30,000 to $40,000 in SALT will now be limited to the $10,000 cap. Per Mr. Mulshine’s column, Senate President Stephen Sweeney (D-3rd, Gloucester) has said builders have told him they anticipate that the new SALT cap will cause a 7.4-percent decrease in home values. In response, he said property taxes will either have to be increased to make up for this cut in revenue or governmental spending will have to be cut back. In addition, Mr. Sweeney no longer supports a millionaires tax in New Jersey, saying President Trump and Republicans having effectively accomplished that through the SALT cap. Another concern we have is that towns are now under stateordered revaluations. How will a 7.4-percent drop in values, if this does in fact occur, impact tax assessments which will now equal 100 percent of the market value at the time they are completed?

When the SALT cap was approved as part of the Republican tax cut package, a number of state lawmakers said they would sponsor legislation to remove the same $10,000 limit on State and Local Taxes on state income-tax returns. Cranford has begun its budget meetings while Scotch Plains will begin its budget talks with department heads on Saturday. We expect that Union County Manager Alfred Faella will present his final executive budget soon. He is retiring as of March 1, when Ed Oatman takes over as manager. It is our hope that municipal officials will attend some of these meetings which, over the past few years, have been held at county facilities such as the Galloping Hill Golf Course clubhouse and the VocationalTechnical Schools. In some towns the county portion of property taxes is more than the municipal portion. As the budget process begins we again urge lawmakers and Governor Phil Murphy to extend the 2percent cap on arbitration awards for police and firefighter contracts. The cap on arbitration awards was initiated by former Governor Chris Christie and Sen. Sweeney in 2011 and extended in 2014. By letting this cap expire, collective bargaining units will have no incentive to settle contracts during negotiations, knowing that an arbitrator will likely give them more than 2 percent in salary increases.

New Law Advances Ability Of Veterans to Access Services While Americans remain divided on multiple issues today, one that most people can agree upon is the critical need to improve our military veterans’ access to the benefits to which they are so richly entitled. The success of recent legislation (S-1534/A1249), designed to enhance New Jersey veterans’ access to such benefits, we believe helps advance this important cause. One of more than 100 bills signed into law by former Governor Chris Christie during his last full day in office January 15, the measure eases the process for veterans to obtain county identification cards. It also allows veterans who served in the National Guard in other states to participate in the program as well. “All veterans, including those who served the country in the National Guard, deserve easy access to services that they can receive with county veteran IDs,” said Assemblyman Anthony M. Bucco (R-25th, Randolph), who co-sponsored the Assembly bill with Assemblyman Parker Space (R-24th, Sparta), in a statement released two days after the bill became law. “Easing the burden of qualifying will ensure more veterans have better access to the benefits they have earned.” The statement notes that the new law “allows

veterans to qualify for cards with approved separation forms specified by all branches of the military. No longer will they be required to show DD-214 forms.” The county veteran identification cards “will include the date of issuance and indicate the separation form used to prove eligibility,” the statement continued. We applaud such actions by our elected representatives, and encourage all our legislators to continue to champion the courageous men and women who comprise the ranks of our military. As we have stated previously in this space, we owe these defenders of our freedom a debt of gratitude that can never be quantified or repaid. Nevertheless, many veterans, from those who served decades ago to those just returning home, continue to face battles of a different kind. These include PTSD, physical disabilities, financial struggles and other readjustment challenges, sometimes compounded by difficulties accessing the appropriate services to address these issues. All of our military personnel — active duty and veterans alike — deserve the very best efforts we can give them. We hope to see even further measures realized in the near future, to provide each hero the homecoming he or she has rightfully earned.

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Letters to the Editor Linden Council Members ‘Dismayed’ By Mayor Armstead for Dem V-Chair Editor’s Note: The following letter concerns the Union County Democratic Committee upcoming election Feb. 21 for chairman. Derek Armstead serves as mayor of Linden. Dear Acting Chairwoman Mahr: We are both troubled and dismayed by your selection of Derek Armstead as your running mate for vice-chair of the Union County Democratic Committee. It is our experience as elected councilwomen in the City of Linden that Derek Armstead is the epitome of the challenges facing women in politics – not the answer. We have both respectfully disagreed and spoken out against Mayor Armstead’s tactics and policies in the past. As a consequence, we have both been subjected to verbal attacks, Internet smears, and election challenges to our council seats — led and supported by Derek Armstead. Derek has employed bullying and intimidation tactics in his continuous effort to further divide the local Democratic Party. He has directed his energies towards replacing loyal Democrats on our governing body with

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members of his family. Making matters worse, he simply has an unwholesome record as a broker with women. The person who stood with us – while Derek was trying to unseat us – was Nick Scutari. As chair of the Linden City Democrats, Nick stood up to Derek and ensured we had the party’s full support. We are sure this angered Derek, but Nick did what was right for us, the City of Linden, and for the Democratic Party. He stood with us, and that is why we are proud to stand with him. That fact that you have aligned yourself with a man who repeatedly targets women who stand up and speak out against him is very disconcerting, and with all due respect, calls into question your credibility as a candidate for the county chairmanship position. Based on Derek Armstead’s pattern of behavior in Linden, we fear how he would treat women across the county should they disagree with him. Councilwoman Rhashonna Cosby Councilwoman Gretchen Hickey Linden

Girl Scouts Offer Suggestions To Westfield Mayor Brindle Dear Mayor Brindle, As fourth-grade Girl Scouts at Franklin Elementary School, we congratulate you on being elected Westfield’s first woman mayor! Inspired by your swearing-in ceremony, when you welcomed all voices to help improve Westfield, we met and came up with several ideas to present to you. First, we would like to tell you what we enjoy about Westfield and want to preserve. We love our teachers and all the fun and important things we learn about in school, including music and art. We also are happy that Mindowaskin Park is better than ever thanks to recent improvements, and we like shopping and going out to eat downtown. However, there are many things that we hope you will improve upon. For example, numerous streets need to be repaved, which makes bike riding difficult. We also do not like to see so much trash and gum downtown as well as some groups of unsupervised kids who do not behave very well. To fix these problems, we think that paving roads should be a priority, and we propose more police officers walking regularly through town to keep order. It would also be nice to replace our trashcans with bins that

could take both garbage and recycling, as seen throughout Summit. Additionally, many of us are concerned about speeding in town, because it makes us feel unsafe, especially in residential areas and on streets without sidewalks for pedestrians. We also wish there were more crossingguards to help children walking to and from school, as in at the intersection of Woodmere and Brightwood, which is difficult for many Franklin students to cross. To fill vacancies downtown, we would like to see a painting-and-pottery space or other businesses that might provide after-school activities. Many of us crave more boutiques and a second movie theater. We also feel that not enough stores offer unique clothing and shoes for children. Finally, we would love our town to hold more regular fundraisers, to get people interacting for good causes. One of our ideas is to raise money for a homeless shelter. If we can help you in any way, we are always looking for communityservice projects. We would welcome the chance to be a part of improving our town. Thank you for hearing us! Girl Scout Troop 40476, Westfield

Who’s Really Responsible For Worsening the Public Dialogue? So Stephen Schoeman thinks it’s “most inappropriate” for the Leader to publish photos of demonstrators carrying anti-Trump posters because it “can only inflame the public” and “worsen an already terrible public dialogue.” Sorry, Mr. Schoeman, but protesting is part of what American democracy is all about. Mr. Schoeman says that protest signs spread “disinformation and bias.” He has apparently forgotten about Russia’s use of social media to attempt to influence the 2016 election by spreading disinformation and bias. And FYI, the First Amendment doesn’t require that signs calling for President Trump’s impeachment must

also include an analysis of the “constitutional basis” for impeachment. President Trump has called the news media an “enemy of the people,” and refers to news reporting he doesn’t like as “fake news.” He tells frequent “untruths,” publicly insults and mocks those he disagrees with, denigrates the FBI and Intelligence community, and makes off-the-cuff comments that undercut the efforts of his own people. He irresponsibly taunts North Korea about the “size” of its nuclear button. So who’s really the one responsible for worsening the public dialogue? Bob Pinheiro Westfield

Westfield Library Details Policy on Library Card Registration for Kids There has been some discussion about the Westfield Memorial Library’s policy regarding card registration and attendance at library programs. As always the library is committed to providing outstanding service to the residents of Westfield. To that end, the library prioritizes Westfield residents in its policies and procedures. Westfield residents are the only individuals permitted to register for a library card. Adults registering child(ren) for a library card must be the child’s parent/legal guardian. They are the only individuals permitted to do so. This is common practice in most, if not all libraries, and ensures that the parent/legal guardian knows about the library card and will be responsible for all materials checked out on that card. Years ago, in order to expand services to the public, the libraries of Middlesex and Union Counties created the Middlesex Union Reciprocal Agreement Libraries (M.U.R.A.L.) program. While Westfield is a member of this program, it can place restrictions on non-residents that patronize the library. For our library that State LD-21 Sen. Thomas Kean, Jr. (R) 425 North Ave. E. Westfield, N.J. 07090 (908) 232-3673 Asm. Jon Bramnick (R) 251 North Ave. West Westfield, N.J. 07090 (908) 232-2073 Asm. Nancy Munoz (R) 57 Union Place, Suite 310 Summit, N.J. 07901

means Westfield residents, including their children, receive priority over non-residents for programs offered by the Westfield Memorial Library, especially those which are anticipated to be in high demand. Having these policies in place permits the library to expend funds that best serve the residents of Westfield. In 2017, the library hosted 376 children’s programs/library visits which were attended by more than 8,000 children. The Youth Services staff eagerly plans and facilitates these many popular programs, many of which reach full capacity. While it is unfortunate to not accept children from all communities into our programs, it is simply not feasible. Because of the high demand for these programs, it is necessary to prioritize Westfield children, as they may otherwise be closed out. It is our hope that we have clarified the commitment and policies of the Westfield Memorial Library. The library will continue to remain a prominent destination that strives to provide exceptional resources for the community of Westfield.

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Diction Deception Below are four arcane words, each with four definitions – only one is correct. The others are made up. Are you sharp enough to discern this deception of diction? If you can guess one correctly – good guess. If you get two – well-read individual. If you get three – word expert. If you get all four – You must have a lot of free time! All words and correct definitions come from the board game Diction Deception. Answers to last week’s arcane words. 1. Jetton – A small metal counter used in some card games 2. Pucelage – Virginity 3. Facundity – Eloquence; readiness of speech 4. Externat – A day school HORTATIVE 1. Bristled; standing erect 2. Pertaining to an orchard or garden 3. To urge strongly or encourage 4. Having a terrible sound; sounding dreadfully LIVOR 1. Envy 2. Resembling or of the color of lye; ashen 3. Vigorous; very active 4. Belief POCOCURANTE 1. A marsh or swamp 2. Indifferent or apathetic 3. Afflicted with gout 4. Dull; lissless ESPISCATION 1. Very particular; something outstanding 2. The act of scaling fish 3. Sensitivity to art and beauty; good taste 4. Act of getting to the truth of any matter by strict inquiry

Letters to the Editor

Mayor Tells of SP Muni Health Care Last week at a special meeting of the Township Council [Scotch Plains], the Township Council passed a resolution to end the township’s participation in the State Health Benefits Program and switch to private health insurance. The Township Council made it a priority to find ways to save taxpayer money on health insurance, as health insurance costs for the state have been increasing. After considering several potential private health insurance brokers, the Township Council ultimately chose a private health insurance broker who will reduce costs and save taxpayers about $115,000, while providing equal to or better coverage for township employees. It is important to note that because of an ordinance passed by the Township Council in early 2017, the Mayor and Township Council members are prohibited from receiving taxpayer-funded health benefits under both state and private health insurance. Therefore, the Mayor and Township Council will not be able to receive health benefits under this new private health plan. This is a win-win for taxpayers, and I remain committed to finding more ways to increase efficiency and save taxpayer money in 2018. Mayor Al Smith Scotch Plains

Valentine’s Day To our mothers, sisters, lover or wife, we wish you a happy Valentine’s Day. The iconic heart we display on Valentine’s Day is a picture worth a thousand words of love that we fail to say. Throughout our life every day, you show your love in so many ways. You care for our health and make sure we eat right. You reassure us when things go wrong that it will be all right. You are our toughest critic when we veer off-course and you set us right. You are our strongest supporter in everyday life, and at the end of the day before we turn out the lights. We know we are blessed to have the best mother, sister, lover or wife. Dedicated to all the women in our life, Happy Valentine’s Day! Walter Sosnosky Kenilworth

We Stand When the President Enters, Not Because of Him But for The Office

The Westfield Board Of Health Held A Meeting On January 22, 2018

“We the People,” the famous first three words of the Preamble of the United States Constitution that changed the course of world history, mean “We” and not some special interest. The “United” in the United States of America means together, not divisible. But tell this to the country today so riven by political and ideological divisions. Who is thinking of the country rather than some special interest group? Yes, in a democracy we each are entitled to our opinions, hopefully based upon fact. But we had best take heed of James Madison in Federalist Paper 10. He warned against “faction,” what we today call a special interest group. He was not against people gathering together in a group to voice their opinions. His concern was “some common impulse of passion, or of interest, adverse to the rights of other citizens, or to the permanent and aggregate interests of the community.” Madison thought that factions could more likely be controlled in a large republic such as the United States than in a small republic because of “a greater variety of parties” so that no one party would be able “to outnumber and oppress the rest. But, tragically, Madison has been proven wrong. For today even the immense size of the United States has not prevented the advance of special interests to the point that the unity of the country is being torn apart by groups having only their own concerns at heart. Patrick Henry in his last speech, March 1799, two months before he died, declared, “United we stand, di-

Influenza (flu) is widespread in the area, see the Center for Disease Control’s map at www.cdc.gov/flu/ weekly/usmap.htm. It is not too late to get a flu inoculation; you, your family, and your co-workers can benefit if you get the vaccine. Please do not delay, it can take up to two weeks for the flu shot to protect you from the virus. Vaccines are readily available from your health care provider and many of the area pharmacies. The Board reviewed the Westfield Regional Health Department reports for December 2017. During the end of November and through December the Department conducted 25 inspections; 21resulted in satisfactory ratings, one (a walk-in investigation) resulted in no rating and three were found conditionally satisfactory. Six schools were audited for compliance with maintaining proper immunization records. All schools were 100 percent in compliance. Childhood lead prevention investigations were discussed. One child in Westfield is the subject of a lead investigation.

vided we fall. Let us not split into factions which must destroy that union upon which our existence hangs.” The Great Seal of the United States includes the words “E Pluribus Unum” (“Out of many, one”). What then is to unite us along our path through history? What can unite us in the central task of making our country greater, freer, stronger, and more prosperous than ever before? How can the disunities of today become the unity of tomorrow? Or shall we hobble along from day to day, never knowing the course we are taking because we do not know which self interest shall take dominance over the national interest? There is the spectacle of the Democratic members of Congress at the last State of the Union Address remaining in their seats when the President of the United States of America entered the chamber of the House of Representatives. This perhaps more than most things illustrates how far faction and hence disunity has come. We stand when the President enters the room not because of him but because of his office. For when we stand for his office we stand for our beloved country. Whatever our grievances, large or small, there must be the one governing theme that Abraham Lincoln immortalized with “A house divided cannot stand.” Or take Aesop’s advice in “The Bundle of Sticks” about quarreling sons who individually cannot break the bundle of sticks. Their father admonishes them, “Union gives strength.” Stephen Schoeman Westfield

Suburban Speech Center Celebrates 40th Year In January, Dr. Nancy Polow, cluding Miami Dade College in Scotch Plains resident, celebrated her Florida, Seton Hall University and 40th year as owner and William Paterson Unidirector of Suburban versity in New Jersey. Speech Center, located in She has lectured Short Hills. throughout the country. Nancy Polow, Ph.D., Suburban Speech was previously recogCenter has received nized by her NJSHA colcommendations on the leagues when they state and national levels awarded her “The Outfor its work with the pestanding Clinical Achievediatric through adolesment Award” and the cent population. For ad“Honors of the Associaditional information, tion” award. She was feaplease contact the Centured on “CBS This Mornter at (973) 921-1400 or ing” as well as the NaDr. Nancy Polow visit the website at tional Geographic Netwww.suburbanspeechcenter.com. work (The Science Times). Dr. Polow Paid Bulletin Board has served as an adjunct professor at goleader.com/form/bulletin three colleges and universities, in-

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Overlook Medical Center is offering glucose and blood pressure screenings on the following Mondays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m: February 5, 12, and 26, and March 5, 12, 19 and 26. These screenings will be held at the Overlook Downtown Center located at 357 Springfield Avenue Summit. Each of these screenings requires pre-registration and there is no fee. Call 1800-247-9580 to register. Information on the health department’s activities, including child health clinics and vaccines for adults, and other programs and activities can be found on the Westfield Regional Health Department website at www.westfieldnj.gov/health. The next meeting of the Westfield Board of Health will be on Monday, March 5 at 5:30 p.m. in the Westfield Municipal Building; the public is invited to attend. Thomas O’Neill, President Westfield Board of Health

Children, Taxpayers Win With CHIP Passage The Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) has now been authorized and funded for six more years. This is a major accomplishment: nine million low-income children depend on CHIP and the Congressional Budget Office estimates that CHIP will actually save taxpayer funds in the long run. I have been a supporter of CHIP since one of my first votes in Congress and the House Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee, of which I am a member, drafted this most recent legislation. CHIP sets up a program under which states receive federal support to provide child health assistance to uninsured, low-income children who meet certain requirements. Comprehensive medical, dental, vision and prescription coverage are options for those children whose families do not qualify for Medicaid and also cannot get insurance through private plans. State innovation is encouraged and many states have implemented programs that provide excellent services and reduce costs. New Jersey covers nearly 130,000 children, enabling many young people to have timely access to doctors’ appointments, preventative care and other services. It is

important we fill in this gap in coverage and do so in a fiscally responsible way. Children and taxpayers won with the signing of this legislation. The debate over CHIP has played out in news reports for several weeks with the major criticism being aimed at the process. I, too, am critical of that process – policy differences or the filibuster may be to blame for the Senate’s inaction but the U.S. House, and specifically the Energy and Commerce Committee, did the job we were required to do: reauthorize the program and get it passed. There are debates to come on the sustainability of other important federal programs. I will continue to be involved in bipartisan collaborations and use CHIP as a model of how an evidence-based, state-federal partnership should work. Rep. Leonard Lance Westfield

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SOUPER STUDENTS...For the fourth year in a row, the students of Harding School in Kenilworth collected canned goods, plus hats, gloves and scarves, for the Cranford Elmora Soup Kitchen and the First Baptist Church of Elizabeth’s Food Pantry. The Student Council started this project to coincide with “Souper” Bowl Sunday in memory of Judy Ringler, a beloved Harding School secretary. Ms. Ringler was a dedicated volunteer and supporter of the Cranford/Elmora Soup Kitchen for several years. Each year she coordinated a school collection of hats, gloves and scarves for the guests of the program.

Registration Begins March 1 For Kidz Klub Day Camp CRANFORD — Members of the Cranford Pool and Fitness Center may enroll child members in Kidz Klub, a weekly summer day camp, running from June 18 to August 24. The Klub emphasizes outdoor play, pool activities, arts and crafts, as well as a weekly bus trip. Enrollment is for children ages 5 to 12, with options for early dropoff (7 a.m.) and late pickup (6:30 p.m.). The Kidz Klub runs for 10 weeks but participants may enroll for one to three weeks, four to six weeks or seven to 10 weeks. Registration for summer pool mem-

berships is open to residents and nonresidents starting Thursday, March 1, and must be completed before registering for the Kidz Klub. Registration packets will be available either in the Fitness Center at 401 Centennial Avenue or online at cranfordnj.org/poolfitness-center/pages/forms starting Monday, February 12. Registration will begin March 1 and will take place Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and must be done in person, as space is limited. For additional hours or more information, call Sally at (908) 709-7260, extension no. 2307.

Westfield Area Y to Host Presidents’ Day Jump WESTFIELD — The Westfield Area YMCA invites youngsters to enjoy “Presidents’ Day Jump” while they are off from school on Monday, February 19. It will take place from 11 a.m. to noon in the Main Y Gym, located at 220 Clark Street, Westfield. Geared to families with children ages 8 and under, and open to all, the event will allow participants to enjoy jumping on three huge inflatables. Registration is required by 10 a.m. on February 19 and can be done

online at westfieldynj.org or in person at the Main Y Welcome Center. A $7 donation per person ages 2 to adult will benefit the Y’s Annual Support Campaign, which ensures that no one experiencing a bona fide financial hardship and who lives or works in Westfield, Cranford, Garwood or Mountainside is turned away for inability to pay. For more information, contact Eileen Rooney at (908) 301-YMCA (9622), extension no. 134, or [email protected]

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TREATING HIGH-ALTITUDE HEADACHES Hiking or skiing at high altitudes has been known to produce severe headaches, known as “highaltitude headaches,” which are caused by reduced oxygen levels. While ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) has been widely accepted to be the best medicine for high-altitude headaches, it can also worsen the nausea that typically accompanies these headaches. This led researchers to see whether acetaminophen (Tylenol), which does not cause nausea, would be equally effective for treating highaltitude headaches. The study involved testing the two pain relievers on hikers who trekked 14,000 feet up in the mountains of Nepal. It was found that acetaminophen and ibuprofen are equally effective. Acetaminophen would therefore

be the preferred choice because it provides relief without the potential for accompanying nausea. Acetaminophen is also used to treat muscle aches, arthritis, backache, toothaches, colds, and fever. You should not take acetaminophen if you have severe liver disease. For more information, please call us today. We are a full-service pharmacy that does compounding and veterinarian compounding on site, as well as offering free prescription delivery. Next to your personal doctor, your pharmacist is the most informed about the various medications available and their contraindications. For more information, please call our pharmacy. HINT: Headache and acute mountain sickness commonly occur over 8,500 feet above sea level.

Jesus Perez-Santalla, 80, Was Loving Husband, Father, Grandfather, Brother Jesus Perez-Santalla, 80, formerly (Donna), Guillermo Miguel of Mountainside, N.J., passed away (Deborah), Carlos Alberto (Marlene), Laura Margarita Vitollo on Thursday, January (Stephen), Eduardo 18, 2018, in Mexico Enrique (Francine) and City, Mexico, from sepRebecca Maria Lorenson tic shock related to his (Michael); his 18 grandbattle with Lymphoma. children; four greatHe was a strong-willed grandchildren, and his man whose health befirst wife, Virginia. He gan failing him the last was predeceased by his years, but he faced it older brother, Avelino. with dignity. Jesus’ Funeral Mass Born on March 8, 1937 will be celebrated on Satin Havana, Cuba, he marurday, February 10, ried Virginia Fiallo there 2018, at 10:30 a.m., at in 1959, divorcing in Jesus Perez-Santalla the Our Lady of Lourdes 1992. In 1993, he remarried Elena Goycoechea, settling in Church, 300 Central Avenue, MounCuernavaca, Mexico, in 2006, where tainside, N.J. Interment will follow he resided until his death. People who at St. Teresa Cemetery in Summit, met him felt special. He could bring N.J. Arrangements are by Gray Funeral out the best in them. He loved his family. He appreciated and honored Directors of Westfield, N.J. To offer condolences, please go to hard work and loved America. Jesus is survived by his wife, Elena; www.grayfuneralhomes.com. February 8, 2018 his six children, Javier de Jesus

VALENTINE SUNDAY...The Miller-Cory House Museum in Westfield will welcome visitors this Sunday, February 11, between 2 and 4 p.m., for “Vintage Valentines and a Tribute to Ms. Jean Groszmann.” Intricate and embellished valentines, pictured, will be on display. A children’s craft and refreshments also will be part of the festivities.

Miller-Cory Museum Plans Valentine Program Sunday WESTFIELD — Love will be in the air this Sunday, February 11, between 2 and 4 p.m., when the Miller-Cory House Museum presents “Vintage Valentines and a Tribute to Ms. Jean Groszmann.” The museum is located at 614 Mountain Avenue, Westfield. The writing of romantic notes and letters for St. Valentine’s Day was very popular in colonial America. By the mid-1800s, the first massproduced Valentine’s Day cards were sold, and an industry was born. Sunday’s event will feature a display of vintage valentines, some dating to the 1800s; a children’s Valentine’s Day craft and light refreshments. The program also will include a tribute to Jean Groszmann, whose collections, including valentines, provided the basis for numerous programs at the museum. Admission is $4 for ages 13 and older; $3 for ages 3 to 12, and free for those under age 3. Upcoming Sunday programs include “A Spot of Tea” on March 4 and “Maple Sugar Sunday” on March 18. Open-hearth cooking demonstra-

tions also will resume in March. The Miller-Cory House Museum is available for school, Scout or other group tours. Also available is the Showcase of 18th Century Skills, during which volunteers demonstrate colonial-era crafts and discuss 18th-century life in New Jersey for interested groups, including on-site at local schools. For more information, call (908) 232-1776 or e-mail [email protected] Details on programs also are posted on the museum’s Facebook page and on its website, millercoryhouse.org.

Hypertension Clinic To Be at Library SCOTCH PLAINS — The township nurse will be available at the Scotch Plains Public Library for blood pressure checks on Tuesday, February 13, from 10 a.m. until noon. No registration is required. The Scotch Plains Public Library is located at 1927 Bartle Avenue, one block from Park Avenue, in the center of the township.

The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES

– Obituaries – Rose Arbes, 100, Was Former Resident of Westfield

Rose (Pasquarella) Arbes, 100, one who had ever met her became a passed away on Monday, January 15, friend; she was endearing and loving. 2018, at a local hospital, surrounded She had a beautiful smile and always made people feel a little by family and friends. happier for having talked She was born March 20, with her. She will be 1917 in Westfield, N.J., missed by everyone who where she resided until knew her. Rose was a moving to De Pere, Wis., member of the Holy Trinin 1998. After attending ity Greek Orthodox Drake College she marChurch in Fond du Lac. ried her Sunday School She is survived by her sweetheart and remained sister, Phyllis, and brothhappily married for 72 ers, Grenville and Richyears. She and her husard; son, Stephen band, Stephen, owned (Debra); grandchildren, and operated Helen Karinne (Jeff), Jason Elliott’s Candy Co. Rose Arbes (Leah), Nicole (Kevin), based in Plainfield, N.J., Shawn (Michelle) and until their early retirement in 1965. They enjoyed boating Lynsie (Carl); 10 (almost 11) greatalong the Jersey Shore and were both grandchildren and one great-great active in the Watchung Power Squad- grandson. She was preceded in death by her ron and later in Green Bay. Rose enjoyed traveling with her husband, parents, Salvatore and Anna particularly to Greece and Italy. They Pasquarella; her son, James; her husonce took a two-month road trip band, Stephen; sisters, Esther and throughout the United States. She was Florence, and brother, David. Family and friends may visit at Cotan accomplished artist and enjoyed painting with friends at the De Pere ter Funeral Home, 860 N. Webster Senior Center. She thoroughly en- Avenue, De Pere, Wis., on Saturday, joyed De Pere and Green Bay. She February 17, from 10 a.m. until the was a lifelong Green Bay Packer fan. time of the service at 11 a.m. For condolences, visit The past six years she lived at Bellevue online Senior Residence, where she enjoyed www.cotterfuneralhome.com. February 8, 2018 and cherished new friendships. Any-

College Women Prepare To ‘Go Van Gogh’ Monday CRANFORD — “Go Van Gogh!” will be the topic of Michael Norris at the Monday, February 12 meeting of the College Women’s Club of Cranford. The meeting will take place at the First Presbyterian Church, located at 11 Springfield Avenue, Cranford. Mr. Norris has a Bachelor of Arts in Classics from the University of California at San Diego and a Master of Arts in Classics and a Ph.D. in Art History from the University of California at Santa Barbara. He has spent 20 years at the Cloisters Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and has lectured in classical and medieval art, the areas of his expertise, on trips all over the world. He

Best Friend to Hold Cat Adoption Saturday BERKELEY HEIGHTS — Best Friend Dog and Animal Adoption, Inc. will hold a cat adoption event this Saturday, February 10. It will take place from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Pet Supplies Plus, located at 410 Springfield Avenue, Berkeley Heights. Additionally, visitors can have Valentine photos taken with their pets between 11:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. The price is $10 per pet for a four-bysix-inch or five-by-seven-inch photo.

is the founder of Armchair Art Tours. Vincent Van Gogh, pastor and painter, produced more than 2,000 works of art in his last decade. As he had no children, he viewed his paintings as his progeny. Mr. Norris will explore some of these “Brilliant Children,” especially those at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, with attendees at this meeting. The evening will begin at 7 p.m. with refreshments, followed by the meeting and Mr. Norris’ program. The meeting is open to the public and all are invited to attend. The College Women’s Club of Cranford also invites the public to attend its first annual “Scholar Tea” on Sunday, March 11, from 1 to 3 p.m. It will be held at Bates Hall in the First Presbyterian Church on Springfield Avenue in Cranford. An assortment of tea sandwiches and gourmet tea will be provided along with a guest speaker who will talk about the history of tea. The Cake Artist Cafe will cater the sandwiches and desserts for the tea. All proceeds from the tea will support the club’s scholarship fund, which provides scholarships for Cranford highschool seniors who are pursuing a degree at a college or university. Tickets are $30 per person. For ordering information, send an e-mail to [email protected]

CREATIVE AND KIND...The women of the Creative Hands Community Service Group of Second Westfield Senior Citizens Housing display the handmade prayer shawls they recently donated to Robert Wood Johnson University HospitalRahway. Donna Mancuso, director of marketing and community education at RWJ-Rahway, is pictured at the far left.

Jean Steinman, 84, of Fanwood, Was Devoted Grandmother, Parishioner Jean Steinman, 84, of Fanwood died on Saturday, February 3, 2018. Jean was born and raised in New Brunswick, N.J. She married her husband, Joseph, and settled into the home he built in Fanwood in 1954. Jean worked as office staff for Family Investors in Fanwood for several years. She then worked as a banker for United National Bank in Plainfield before retiring in 2003. Jean was a parishioner of St. Bartholomew the Apostle Roman Catholic Church for over 68 years. She loved to read and her Yankees. But, what Jean loved the most, and lived her life for, was her three grandchildren. She was there for every important activity, event, game, and moment of their lives.

SWSCH Group Donates Prayer Shawls to RWJ WESTFIELD — The 18 women of the Second Westfield Senior Citizens Housing (SWSCH) Creative Hands Community Service Group hand-knitted and crocheted an assortment of 71 prayer shawls which they donated to Robert Wood Johnson University HospitalRahway on January 18. The women began this project in early Fall 2017 after they completed an afghan project for the New Jersey Veterans Home in Menlo Park. Members of the group knitted and crocheted each shawl using their own unique patterns. The bulk of the yarn used for this project was from donations. “These shawls are being distributed to various ambulatory and inpatient units around the hospital. Already, I have heard wonderful things about the shawls. Our patients love them — the colorful shawls are so lovely and are better than blankets,” said Donna Mancuso, director of marketing and community education at RWJ-Rahway. Members of the group were given a tour of the hospital’s Hyperbaric

Oxygen (HBO) Therapy Chamber at its Wound Center, as well as its Physical Therapy Unit. The women were then treated to lunch in the RWJ cafeteria. The mission of the Creative Hands Community Service Group is to build a community of women whose intent is to spread love and warmth with their knitted and crocheted items to those in need. Since 2014, these women have faithfully come together every week to knit and crochet items for donation. The Community Service Group would appreciate receiving donations of yarn/wool to continue their projects, and expressed appreciation to the community for their generous yarn donations. Anyone interested in donating yarn may call Carezza Motley, recreation director, at (908) 518-9586, extension no. 5. Second Westfield Senior Citizens Housing, located at 1129 Boynton Avenue, Westfield, opened in October 1995. Sitting on 8.5 acres of park-like land, it is adjacent to the senior citizens building located at 1133 Boynton Avenue.

Jean was predeceased by her husband, Joseph, in 1969. She is survived by her two daughters, Linda Heinsen (Hans) and Cindy MacKinnon; her three grandchildren, Kyle Joseph (Mana), Amanda Jean (Valmer Morales) and Nicole Faith MacKinnon. AFuneral Mass was offered on Tuesday, February 6, at St. Bartholomew the Apostle Church. Arrangements were by Rossi Funeral Home, 1937 Westfield Avenue, Scotch Plains. Contributions can be made in Jean’s name to the Interfaith Food Pantry of Morris, www.donatenow.networkforgood.org/ interfaithfoodpantry, or to the Scholarship Fund at the St. Bartholomew Academy of Scotch Plains, N.J. February 8, 2018

FCC Lenten Sermon Series, Adult Studies Program Due WESTFIELD — The First Congregational Church of Westfield will offer a special sermon series and Adult Studies program in observance of Lent, the most sacred season of the Christian tradition. All are free and open to the public. Beginning Sunday, February 18, at 10 a.m., this year’s annual Lenten Sermon Series will explore the theme of “Crossroads.” Each week, the morning’s message will examine a story from the Gospels of individuals or groups whose life was changed by their encounter with Jesus, the choice that encounter left them with going forward, and how those choices reflect the ones people are given today. The series will continue each Sunday throughout Lent with the exception of the Lenten Music Festival on March 18. Beginning Tuesday, February 20, at 7:30 p.m., the Adult Studies series “Four Accounts of Jesus’ Resurrection” will examine the varying accounts of Jesus’ burial and resurrection in the four Gospels as well as the letters of Paul. All of them affirm his resurrection but differ in various ways. Participants will explore the diversity of the accounts and discuss what they mean for their own Lenten journey and Easter cel-

ebrations. The series will continue on February 27, March 6 and March 20 in the church’s Wightman Chapel Lounge. First Congregational Church, a member of the United Church of Christ, is located at 125 Elmer Street, Westfield. For additional information, call the church office at (908) 233-2494 or visit the church website at fccofwestfield.org.

Trinity School Slates Tricky Tray Friday CRANFORD — The Trinity Episcopal Day School (TEDS) will host its fourth annual Tricky Tray event tomorrow, Friday, February 9, from 7 to 10 p.m. It will take place in Sherlock Hall at the school, located at 205 North Avenue East, Cranford. Tickets are $25 per person. “Proceeds from the evening will go for new classroom equipment,” said Nancy Ditzel, TEDS director. “We invite all adults to join us for a fun evening for a great cause.” Attendees need to bring their own food and wine. Coffee, tea, water and desserts will be provided. Tickets may be purchased in advance or at the door. Interested persons are asked to call (908) 276-2881.

‘Terrarium’ and ‘Café’ Set At Lavy House This Month WESTFIELD — Two programs are scheduled for February at The Senior Resource Center at The Lavy House, located at 748 East Broad Street, Westfield. They include “Making Your Own Terrarium” and “Memory Café.” “Making Your Own Terrarium” with Rutgers Master Gardeners will be the featured program for senior citizens and their families on Tuesday, February 13, at 11:30 a.m. A light lunch will be served and kosher dietary laws observed. Registration is recommended if planning to attend. To register, email [email protected] or call (908) 352-8375.

Alzheimer’s Group To Meet February 16

Westfield Pediatric Dental Group

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WESTFIELD — Jewish Family Service (JFS) of Central New Jersey, a non-sectarian health and social service agency, will host an Alzheimer’s Support Group, through Alzheimer’s New Jersey, on Friday, February 16. It will take place from 10 to 11 a.m. at The Presbyterian Church in Westfield, located at 140 Mountain Avenue, Westfield. Free and open to Alzheimer’s/Dementia caregivers in the community, the group is run in accordance with Alzheimer’s New Jersey guidelines. Participants are welcome to join the group at any time. The support group is not suitable for individuals with the dementia diagnosis. Registration is recommended. If planning to attend, or seeking more information about the JFS program for Alzheimer’s and Dementia Disorders, contact Alice Greenberg-Sheedy at [email protected] or (908) 352-8375.

“The Memory Café” will be held on Tuesday, February 27, from noon to 2 p.m. This program provides a casual opportunity to enjoy lunch, social activities and entertainment for individuals with early to moderate Alzheimer’s Disease/Dementia and their care partners. It is open, free of charge, to Alzheimer’s/Dementia caregivers in the community and their loved ones. A light lunch will be served and kosher dietary laws observed. Registration is required for the Memory Café as space is limited. To register, call Naomi Kreutzer at (908) 352-8375. The Senior Resource Center at The Lavy House is a joint venture between Jewish Family Service of Central New Jersey, Temple EmanuEl of Westfield and the Westfield United Fund. Through a grant from the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater MetroWest NJ, Jewish Family Service of Central New Jersey provides programming and the services of Licensed Clinical Social Worker Naomi Kreutzer each Tuesday. Programs are free of charge and open to the entire community.

St. James Announces Ash Wed. Schedule SPRINGFIELD — St. James the Apostle Roman Catholic Church has announced its Ash Wednesday service schedule for February 14. Ashes will be distributed at the 7:30 a.m. Mass; the 11 a.m. Liturgy of the Word Service (with St. James School); 3:30 p.m. Liturgy of the Word Service, and 7 p.m. Mass. St. James Church is located at 45 South Springfield Avenue, Springfield.

Tricky Tray, Golf Outing To Benefit ECF Families SCOTCH PLAINS — The Emmanuel Cancer Foundation (ECF) has announced two events taking place in the spring and summer. All proceeds will benefit children with cancer and their families. The Fourth Annual Tricky Tray Fundraiser will take place on Saturday, May 5, at 6 p.m. This event will be held at Mother Seton Regional High School, located at 1 Valley Road, Clark. The first ticket will be pulled at 8 p.m. Tickets are $25 and include one sheet of 25 Tier One tickets. Hundreds of baskets and items with three tiers of prizes will be available. There also will be a 50/50 raffle and door prizes. Attendees are invited to bring their own drinks and snacks. Light refreshments will be served. Reservations may be made for a table of eight. Checks should be made payable to Emmanuel Cancer Foundation. For more information, contact Barbara Kopel at (908) 3224323, extension no. 17, or

[email protected] The ECF Golf Outing will be held on Monday, July 16, at the Hollywood Golf Club, located at 510 Roseld Avenue, Deal. Registration will begin at 10:30 a.m., with a buffet lunch at 11 a.m. and a shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. A cocktail reception will be held from 5:15 to 6 p.m., followed by a buffet dinner at 6 p.m., the guest speaker at 6:15 p.m., awards at 6:30 p.m., and a wrap-up at 6:40 p.m. The cost is $400 for a single golfer and $1,500 for a foursome. For more information, contact Barbara at (908) 322-4323, extension no. 17, or [email protected] Sponsorships and ads also are available. For up-to-date information or happenings at ECF, interested persons are invited to “like” the organization on Facebook: Emmanuel Cancer Foundation, follow ECF on [email protected], find ECF on Instagram, or visit the website at emmanuelcancer.org.

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The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES

Fanwood Presb. Offers Lenten Programs to All FANWOOD — The Fanwood Presbyterian Church invites everyone to attend its Ash Wednesday service and Lenten Soup and Devotions program. The Ash Wednesday service will be held on February 14 in the sanctuary at 7:30 p.m. It will include a brief message from the Reverend David Jahnke, pastor, along with choral music, communion and the imposition of ashes. The Soup and Devotions program will take place in the church dining room. Attendees are asked to enter from McDermott Place. This program will be offered Wednesday evenings starting February 21 at 6:30 p.m. It will include a simple meal of soup, salad and bread, followed by a 7 p.m. study called “Psalms for the Journey.” This is based on the Reverend Tim Keller’s commentary on seven psalms that echo the prayers of believers throughout the ages. Participants will look at prayers of Confession, Seeking, Thirst, Rest, For the World, For the King and for Security. These address the brokenness of humanity and point to the end of the story — Easter. A DVD component and discussion will be led by Pastors Ken Macari and David Jahnke. Subsequent studies will happen on February 28, March 7, March 14 and March 21. There are many daily devotionals for Lent. For an online version, visit

Laurie and Kevin McCormack of Westfield have announced the birth of their son, Ryan James, on Wednesday, January 24, 2018, at 9:57 a.m., at Morristown Memorial Hospital. Ryan weighed 9 pounds and 2 ounces and measured 21 inches in length at birth. He joins his brother, Sean, who is 4 years old, and his sister, Madison, who is 2½ years old. The baby’s maternal grandparents are Edward and Lucretia Hogan of Westfield. His paternal grandparents are John McCormack of Garwood and the late Kathleen McCormack. Both of Ryan’s parents, Laurie (Hogan) McCormack and Kevin McCormack, are 1999 graduates of Westfield High School.

Library to Host Excel Class, Pol. Ad Music, Frost Kings WESTFIELD – Three programs are on tap at the Westfield Memorial Library during mid-February. The library is located at 550 East Broad Street. An advanced computer class called “How to Use Excel for Finances” will take place this Saturday, February 10, from 2 to 4 p.m. Instructor Karen Camden will add to participants’ basic working knowledge by identifying and demonstrating formulas, functions, auto features and templates along with shortcuts and helpful tips. Prerequisites include keyboarding skills and a minimum level of Basic Excel. Students can bring their own laptop or use a library laptop. In the second program, Paul Christiansen, Ph.D., of Seton Hall University, will present a discussion of how music has been used in political advertising throughout the age of television. His talk, on Thursday, February 15, at 7 p.m., will examine how music has made candidates more noble and opponents more ominous,

to glorify and to detract. The Frost Kings, a four-piece R&B, swing and blues band originating from the North Jersey area, will play on Saturday, February 17, at 2 p.m. Equally at home playing swinging shuffles, slow blues or full-tilt boogies, their repertoire ranges from the West Coast swing stylings of Louis Jordan and T-Bone Walker, to the classic blues of Luther “Guitar Jr.” Johnson, B.B. King and Muddy Waters, to the R&B of Jackie Brenston and Otis Redding. These programs are open to Westfield Memorial Library and MURAL cardholders. MURAL cardholders belong to the 43 libraries that are part of the Middlesex Union Reciprocal Agreement Libraries. Interested persons are advised to visit the Westfield Memorial Library website, wmlnj.org, and click on the “About Us” tab to see if their library is a MURAL participant. To register for any or all of the three upcoming programs, visit wmlnj.org and click on the Online Calendar, or call (908) 789-4090, option 0.

Wednesday Morning Club Highlights Feb. Programs CRANFORD — The Wednesday Morning Club has announced its calendar of activities for the month of February. There will be no business meeting this month. The club’s first event of the month will be the Tuesday, February 13 meeting of its Public Affairs Department at 1 p.m. at the home of Lorraine Ross. Those planning to attend are asked to call her. Members are asked to bring articles from newspapers and magazines that are about issues of public interest happening in New Jersey and nationally for a group discussion. On Tuesday, February 20, at 10 a.m., the Arts and Crafts Department will feature a workshop led by Anne Castellano. Ms. Castellano, a club member and an artist who has exhibited her work locally, will teach attendees about drawing. Participants will produce their own drawings to take home. Those planning to attend are asked to bring a ruler and an eraser and to call Ms. Castellano, who will supply all other materials. All Wednesday Morning Club members are welcome. The workshop

will take place at the Cranford Community Center, located at 220 Walnut Avenue, Cranford. The Literature Department will meet at the home of Barbara Jackson on Monday, February 26, at 1 p.m. Ms. Jackson will lead participants in a discussion of the New York Times bestseller “The Tender Bar” by J.R. Moehringer. Interested persons are asked to call Ms. Jackson if they plan to attend. The club’s March 2018 business meeting will take place on Wednesday, March 7, at 10 a.m., at the Cranford Community Center. Sue Driscoll will preside. John Prescott from the office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs in Union County will be the guest speaker. Mr. Prescott will present a program about famous women who lived and worked in Union County throughout the area’s history up to the present. The public is invited. For more information about the Wednesday Morning Club, call Vice-President Carolyn Moran at (908) 233-5635 or e-mail her at [email protected]

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Calvary Lutheran Invites All For Ash Wednesday

Pittsburgh Theological Seminary’s website at pts.edu/devotional. Sunday worship throughout Lent will be filled with sacred music at both the traditional 9:30 a.m. service and the contemporary 11:15 a.m. service between February 18 and March 25. The Fanwood Presbyterian Church welcomes all. For more information, call the church office at (908) 8898891, e-mail [email protected] or check out the website at fanwoodpc.org.

Son, Ryan James, Born to McCormacks

Thursday, February 8, 2018

ROARING 20’s RETURN...Costumed volunteers of the Mountainside Historic Committee await their guests for last year’s Downton Abbey dinner at the Deacon Andrew Hetfield House. This year, on Friday, February 23, the committee will host a Roaring 20’s-inspired dinner evening at the Hetfield House, featuring a cocktail reception, dinner/dessert and live 20’s jazz music.

Hetfield House to Host 1920’s Speakeasy Social MOUNTAINSIDE – Building on the successes of their previous years’ Colonial- and DowntonAbbey-themed dinners, volunteers at Mountainside’s Deacon Andrew Hetfield House are planning a Roaring 20’s Speakeasy Social dinner event. Scheduled for 7 p.m. on Friday, February 23, at the Hetfield House, this event is a fundraiser for the Mountainside Restoration Committee, with a portion of the proceeds going to the restoration and maintenance of the historic Hetfield and Levi Cory houses. The snow date for the dinner is Saturday, February 24. The Hetfield House, at its previous location on Route 22, was once the site of a “tea house” during Prohibition. Old-timers tell stories indicating that “there was more than tea served in that tea house!” In homage to its previous incarnation, the Hetfield House will once again become a “speakeasy” for a night. Guests are encouraged to dress in Roaring 20’s attire. The evening will begin with a reception in the Hetfield House’s formal parlor, where guests will enjoy live music, appetizers and Jeffrey’s Jumpin’ signature cocktail. After the reception, guests will proceed to the center rooms and small tables for a

Library Friends Set Used Book Sale Dates CRANFORD — The Friends of the Cranford Public Library invite the community to visit their used book sale in the Cranford Public Library’s Friendly Book Cellar. The sale will take place on Wednesday, March 7, 4 to 8:30 p.m.; Thursday and Friday, March 8 and 9, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Saturday, March 10, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. More than 10,000 adult and children’s books, as well as CDs, DVDs and recorded books, will be for sale. Prices range from 25 cents to $2, except for a few specially-marked items. Saturday will be Bag Day, when customers can fill a bag with books for $8. The library is located at 224 Walnut Avenue, Cranford. Entrance to the sale is through the side door, just off the main parking lot. The sale is wheelchair-accessible. Proceeds will benefit the library. For more information about the Friends of the Cranford Public Library, go to cranfordlibrary.org and click on Friends of the Library.

buffet dinner featuring salad, vegetables and main dishes. Meatless items will be available. Beer and wine will be served with dinner. After dinner, diners will enjoy desserts plus coffee/tea and participate in Roaring 20’s party activities. Throughout the evening, costumed servers will assist guests amidst era-appropriate decorations accompanied by live 20’s jazz music from Joe DeVico and his Speakeasy Trio. The music is sponsored by The Arbor Terrace Mountainside Senior Living Facility. Space for this “Flappers & Bootleggers...Roaring 20’s Speakeasy Social” is limited and any interested adults should call for reservations immediately. The cost is $75 per person. Full payments are due within one week of reservation. Reservation forms can be found at the Mountainside Public Library, Borough Hall, online at mountainsidehistory.org, or by calling (908) 789-9420. The Deacon Andrew Hetfield House and Levi Cory House are located at Constitution Plaza adjacent to the Mountainside Public Library. Constitution Plaza is the first right off Birch Hill Road which is off New Providence Road near the Mountainside Volunteer Fire House. The Mountainside Restoration Committee, also known as the Mountainside Historic Committee, is a committee of volunteers whose purpose is to restore and maintain the Deacon Andrew Hetfield House and the Levi Cory House and to collect and save historic information and items from destruction. To make reservations, for information or to donate funds, call (908) 789-9420 or go to mountainsidehistory.org.

Library Invites Adults For Valentine Craft SCOTCH PLAINS — The Scotch Plains Public Library invites adults to learn simple origami by making an elegant Valentine gift bag out of a doily during a craft program on Wednesday, February 14, at 3 p.m. Space is limited and advance registration is required. To register, go to scotlib.org, e-mail [email protected], call (908) 322-5007, extension no. 204, or stop by the library Reference Desk. The Scotch Plains Public Library is located at 1927 Bartle Avenue, one block from Park Avenue, in the center of the township.

CRANFORD — The Calvary Lutheran Church invites the community to Ash Wednesday services on February 14 at 1:15 p.m. or 7:30 p.m. Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the 40-day journey of Lent. Both the afternoon and evening services will include Holy Communion and the Imposition of Ashes. On Ash Wednesday, Christians traditionally gather in worship to confess their sins and prepare their hearts and minds for the renewal of faith through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. “It’s interesting that Ash Wednesday falls on St. Valentine’s Day this year,” said Calvary Pastor Carol Lindsay. “We are hoping to take a pragmatic look at the failures many of us experience in relationships and the grace that God in Christ offers.” Calvary Lutheran Church holds

worship every Sunday at 9:30 a.m. in the sanctuary. Everyone is welcome. Calvary is located at 108 Eastman Street, Cranford. For more information about the congregation, call the office at (908) 276-2418 or go to calvarycranford.com.

Author Geri Livelli To Sign Books Feb. 10 CRANFORD — The community is invited to meet Cranford author Geri Livelli this Saturday, February 10, between 1 and 4 p.m., at Periwinkle’s Fine Gifts, located at 19 North Union Avenue, Cranford. Ms. Livelli will sign copies of her book “The Cameo.” Refreshments will be served. A free chocolate rose will be given with every book purchase. There will be 20 percent off all cameo jewelry in the store that day.

Mountainside Library Lists Further February Events MOUNTAINSIDE — The Mountainside Public Library has announced programs for the second half of February and the remaining Tuesday Night Movies for the month, including Going In Style (2017, PG-13) on February 13; The Secret of Roan Inish (1995, PG) on February 20, and The Big Sick (2017, R) on February 27. All screenings begin at 6:30 p.m. “Guided Meditation for Inner Peace” will be offered Thursday, February 15, at 7:30 p.m. Each month participants explore and experience the most talked-about, evidencebased meditation techniques for inner peace, overall well-being and stress reduction. This month’s topic will focus on intentions and affirmations. “Come Read to Kalee” will take place on Friday, February 16, at 3:30 p.m. Kalee is a therapy dog who makes

her home in Mountainside. Therapy dogs are dogs who go with their owners to volunteer in settings such as schools, hospitals and nursing homes. From working with a child who is learning to read to visiting a senior in assisted living, therapy dogs and their owners work together as a team to improve the lives of other people. Participants will have an opportunity to cuddle up and read to Kalee for five to 10 minutes. They are asked to bring two favorite books with them to read when they come. This program is especially designed for emergent and beginning readers in kindergarten and grade 1. Individuals must reserve a spot for this program. Kalee will be at the library monthly through June. To register for library programs, visit the library or call (908) 2330116. The Mountainside Public Library is located at 1 Constitution Plaza.

SAGE Rep. to Be Speaker At Parkinson’s Meeting WESTFIELD — Kathy Bassiacos, RN, will be the guest speaker at the Monday, February 12 meeting of the Westfield Parkinson Support Group. A care navigator, she will discuss the benefits and resources available at SAGE Eldercare in Summit that enable those with Parkinson’s disease to age in place at home. The group will meet from 1:30 to 3 p.m. in the Parish House Lounge of The Presbyterian Church in Westfield, located at 140 Mountain Avenue, Westfield. The Parish House is the red brick building. Attendees also will learn more about two upcoming events organized by the Westfield Parkinson

Support Group. Information will be available about the bus trip to the Parkinson’s Unity Walk in New York City’s Central Park on Saturday, April 28, and also the Parkinson cruise to Bermuda, July 22 to 29, 2018, leaving from Bayonne, with movement disorder neurologist Daniel Schneider, MD, and Delay the Disease fitness instructor Jean White. The support group meets on the second Monday of each month, except July and August. All people with Parkinson’s and/or their caregivers are welcome to attend. There is no charge, and registration is not necessary. Light refreshments are served. For more information, call Barbara Ringk at (908) 403-3129.

Blue Devil Wrestlers Prevail Over Wounded Cougars, 43-18 By DAVID B. CORBIN Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times

Absentees due to illness or injury prevented what could have been a very tight match between two rivals at the Westfield High School gym on February 2. But with four key Cougars out of the lineup, both teams needed to readjust their lineups and the result was a 43-18 victory by the Blue Devils over Cranford. Missing from the Cougar lineup were Rob Schork (the Union County Tournament [UCT] champ at 220lbs), Conor Halpin (2nd in UCT at

138-lbs), Luke DiGiovanni (2nd in UCT at 126-lbs) and Dean Smith (132lbs) but the JV stand-ins were ready to get their chance and gave it their all. “That obviously wasn’t Cranford’s go-to lineup. When they are at full strength, they are a really good team. We’ve been there. We’ve been there with the depleated lineup. It’s tough! But those Cranford kids wrestled hard knowing that they didn’t have all their firepower,” Blue Devil Head Coach Glen Kurz said. One veteran the Cougars needed bonus points from was junior AJ

Bencivenga, who took to the mat in the second bout of the evening at 145lbs, but he was well aware that with a full lineup, the match would have been much closer, perhaps not even decided until the final bout was over. “A lot of where their good guys were is where we had our good guys,” Bencivenga commented. The Blue Devils took a 3-0 team lead when Luke Scanlan recorded a single-leg trip, a backdoor-to-front door and a double-leg takedown to grab an 8-2 decision over Jack Korzeneski at 138-lbs.

more photos at goleader.com Ballyhoo Sports

David B. Corbin for The Westfield Leader and The Times

GOING AIRBORNE...Blue Devil Russ Weber was lifted into the air several times by Cougar Justin Alpaugh-McLean in his 182-lb bout but Weber bounced back every time to claim a 5-4 victory.

David B. Corbin for The Westfield Leader and The Times

WORKING THE ARM BAR...Cougar AJ Bencivenga, top, attempts to turn Blue Devil Sean Dwyer to his back with an arm bar maneuver during his 145-lb bout. Bencivenga did pin Dwyer in 3:50 but the Blue Devils won the match 43-18.

Bencivenga then went to his arsenal of barrel rolls, fireman’s and duckunder takedowns to build a 12-3 lead over Sean Dwyer before he pinned him in 3:50 with an arm bar/ wrist combination. “I knew the team needed six. They needed big points from me, so I kept trying to get in my high crotch [takedown] and got behind. I tried working my turns but he got out. Then I just got to my dump [barrel roll] and got him to his back there. I knew I could get to it, so I just kept hitting it

until I was able to get my bar on the right side and run him over and get the six for the team,” Bencivenga described. Bencivenga also pulled off a slick leg-around to grapevine reversal early in the second period. Blue Devil Jordan Simpson also went the takedown route in his 152-lb bout with Max Nock and threw in a roll-through tilt, a switch reversal and a half nelson nearfall to claim a 17-5, major decision. At 160-lbs, Blue Devil Isaiah Reese recorded a single-leg

lift, a single-to-a-double and a short throw takedown to go with a far arm tilt to seize an 8-3 victory over Kyell Roper. Blue Devil Tim Miller loved his head-and-arm series of takedowns to grab an 11-4 decision over Danny Swanson at 170-lbs. Next came a toss-up bout between Blue Devil Russ Weber and Justin Alpaugh-McLean at 182-lbs. After being taken to the mat with a lift-andtrip takedown, Weber woke up, quickly escaped and eventually went CONTINUED ON PAGE 13

DOWNING 10 PTS, 12 RBS; O’BRIEN, DeVIZIO 8 PTS EACH

Lady Crusaders Steal Raiders’ Comeback in Basketball, 45-38 By DAVID B. CORBIN Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times

Multiple factors determined the flow of the girls basketball game between the Author L Johnson (ALJ) Crusaders and the hosting Scotch Plains-Fanwood Raiders on February 1. But the thrilling outcome was set up by an impressive Raider comeback in the fourth quarter that was answered by the Crusaders’ stretch of eight straight successful free throws in a 45-38 ALJ victory.

with a big 3-pointer to open the fourth quarter. Stefanie DeVizio (assist, steal), who also finished with eight points, banged a 3-pointer to open the second half and added another with a little over a minute remaining in the fourth to bring the Raiders to within one point, 37-36, of the Crusaders. Kaysia Minor nailed a crucial 3pointer at the buzzer to end the third quarter. “In the first half, I was trying to find my shot. Me and Stefanie DeVizio

second half. Abbe-Gayle Burton (7 points, 4 assists, 4 steals) also had much success under the boards with eight rebounds. Freshman Corrinne Lyght pulled four rebounds and added three assists, two steals and two blocks. “I just try my hardest to rebound because I am one of the biggest players on the court,” Downing commented. O’Brien’s 3-pointer followed by her 2-pointer early in the fourth did open the door inside. Burton took

more photos at goleader.com Ballyhoo Sports

David B. Corbin for The Westfield Leader and The Times

BATTLING FOR THE BALL...ALJ Crusaders Amy Wysocki, No. 25, and Kristina Palella, right, attempt to wrest the ball from Raider Nya Downing as Raider Abbe-Gayle Burton, left, approaches. Downing led the Raiders with 12 rebounds and 10 points but the Crusaders won 45-38.

The 10-7 Raiders were trailing by 11 points, 23-12, entering the third quarter but began to find success hitting the mark from beyond the arc, something they had no success with in the first half. After whittling the lead to eight points at the beginning of the fourth quarter, they continued hitting from the outside, drawing the Crusader defense out, which then opened the door for an inside game. Senior Brianna O’Brien (3 assists, 2 steals) scored all eight of her points in the second half and came through

were looking for that shot and trying to place ourselves on the court. I think when we came into the second half, we knew what we had to do to get the score closer. We were looking for each other on the wing and looking for a break to kick out to us and hoping for the girls to collapse then we would have an open shot,” O’Brien explained. Senior Nya Downing (assist, steal), who led the Raiders with 10 points, also led the team with 12 rebounds and the majority of them came in the

advantage with a putback layup and Downing quickly followed with a layup. “There were a lot of those in the end,” Downing said. After Crusader Amy Wysocki (10 points) sank a pair of free throws, DeVizio hit her 3-pointer then with :53.8 on the clock, Downing was fouled and sank both free throws to put the Raiders ahead by one, 38-37. Shortly afterwards Shelby Lyons was fouled and sank both free throws to CONTINUED ON PAGE 10

By DAVID B. CORBIN Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times

Third-seeded Westfield had little trouble eliminating sixth-seeded Perth Amboy in the first round of the North Jersey, Section 2, Group 5 Tournament in Westfield on February 5. The 13-6 Blue Devils won 11 of the 14 weight classes to emerge with a 60-15 victory. Next the Blue Devils were to

in 25 seconds with a double grapevine and head smother. Perth Amboy got its final victory when Nelson Mercado recorded four takedowns, which included a five-point lateral drop, to earn a 13-6 win over Jeremy Silber at 126-lbs. Blue Devil Theo Dardia recorded a slip-behind takedown and a threepoint half nelson nearfall to take a 5-

combo. Jordan Simpson worked a doubleleg tackle takedown and an ankle pick takedown before turning Chris Madrid to his back in 1:55 with an arm bar/ half nelson at 152-lbs. In the final bout at 160-lbs, Isaiah Reese worked three takedowns, the final one being a rugged double-leg tackle-to-back to record a 3:23 fall over Jamil Angeles.

more photos at goleader.com Ballyhoo Sports

David B. Corbin for The Westfield Leader and The Times

REACHING FOR THE BALL...Cougar Caroline McCaffery, No. 33, tries to take the ball away from Blue Devil Grace Elliott, No. 12, Westfield defeated Cranford, 41-30, in Westfield on February 5.

Lady Blue Devils Top Cougar Cagers, 41-30 Senior Molly Ryan literally took situations into her own hands by committing 10 acts of theft and pumping in 20 points to lead the 13-6 Westfield High School girls basketball team to a 41-30 victory over the visiting Cranford Cougars on February 5. Ryan also had three assists and two rebounds. Camryn Wichelns led the 810 Cougars with 11 points.

Senior Grace Elliott had four steals, four assists, four points and four rebounds for the Blue Devils. Faith Dobosiewicz had six points, four steals, three rebounds and an assist. Samantha Stravach had six rebounds, two blocks and a steal. Lily Maz had five points, three rebounds, two assists and a steal. Lauren Sgro had four points and three rebounds. Caroline

Dwyer had two points, two rebounds and a steal. Emma Pietrewicz had three rebounds. Caroline Kelly scored eight points, Charolotte VanWhy scored five points, Lauren Santarelli scored four points and Caroline McCaffery scored two points for the Cougars. Cranford Westfield

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David B. Corbin for The Westfield Leader and The Times

WORKING A STRETCH HAMMER...Blue Devil Theo Dardia works a stretch hammerlock in his 132-lb bout with Perth Amboy’s Alan Fierrios. Dardia pinned Fierros with that maneuver in 3:36 and Westfield won 60-15.

face the second-seeded, 14-8 Piscataway Chiefs, who defeated Bayonne, 67-6, in their sectional opener. The match with Perth Amboy began in the 170-lb class and Blue Devil Tim Miller, survived a five-point bearhug, escaped and went on to record a single-leg trip takedown and a half nelson/wrist nearfall to carry a 6-5 lead into the second period where he added a head-and-arm walkaround takedown before pinning Lewis Guzman with a wrist/half nelson combo in 3:08. Blue Devil Russ Weber went into overtime (OT) with Luis Colon at 182-lbs and after a standing first OT period, he escaped in his 30-second period then controlled Colon to win, 4-3. Perth Amboy’s David Walch proved to be too much for Brendon Loder at 195-lbs and used a lateral drop to record a fall in 3:08. Blue Devil Matt Dente recorded a slick duck under takedown, a singleleg trip and a pair of escapes to beat Aaron Llanas, 6-1, at 220-lbs. Perth Amboy received a forfeit at 285-lbs then Blue Devils CJ Composto (106lbs) and Luke Hoerle (113-lbs) both received forfeits. At 120-lbs, Quinn Gimblette wasted very little time pinning Joseph Abreu

0 lead over Alan Fierros into the second period at 132-lbs. Dardia then added an escape and another takedown before pinning him with a stretch hammerlock in 3:36. At 138-lbs, Luke Scanlan recorded a side single-leg takedown then pinned Joe Fazzino in 2:43 with a half nelson/wrist combo. Blue Devil Sean Dwyer began his 145-lb bout with Brandon Roman with a high crotch takedown and ended it in 1:45 with a half nelson/tight waist

A SINGLE-LEG TRIP...Blue Devil Matt Dente, right, sets up a single-leg trip takedown in his 220-lb bout with Aaron Llanas as his nervous father observes.

Crusaders Steal Raiders’ Comback in Hoops CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

put the Crusaders up one with 37 seconds left. Then came a bad pass that Kristina Palella intercepted and was fouled. From that point, Palella, who finished with a game-leading 15 points, made the Raiders pay and would sink the Crusaders’ next six points, all from the charity line. “Under pressure, Tina is the girl we

“We should have started off better in the beginning. We couldn’t just blame that pass. They won at the free throw line,” Downing said. The stubborn defensive tactics by the Crusaders, especially in the first half, did make it difficult for the Raiders to penetrate and get off quality shots. The Raiders scored just eight

In practice, they rotate well. When they all are clicking, good things happen,” Coach Marino said. “I think we should come out harder in the beginning. We finished the game pretty well. If shots were falling in the beginning, it would have been a completely different game,” Downing assessed.

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want to get the ball to because they had to stop her. She makes things happen, which is a wonderful thing. And we knew they were going to foul her. They all played together and that was the main thing,” Crusader Head Coach Joe Marino said. The unfortunate pass did change the momentum but the Crusaders were also very deadly from the free throw line, hitting 10 of 11 in the fourth quarter and finishing 14-for-18, while the Raiders were 4-for-11 from the line.

points in the first quarter, four from Burton and four from Downing, while the Crusaders scored 13 points, including a pair of 3-pointers. The second quarter was worse for the Raiders, who scored just four points — two from Isabella Corsaro (2 rebounds, steal) and two from DeVizio. The Crusaders were also getting a lot of second chances in the first half. “The girls work hard on their defense. They believe in it. The key is holding people down under 40 points and that’s what they were trying to do.

“I agree with Nya. I think the start of the game should have been stronger but we did finish strong. We got a lot of steals to get us back in this game. We put in layups at the end and it all comes down to a team effort,” O’Brien added. “Tina [Palella] hustled. She wanted the game badly. She’s a fighter until the end. These girls all grew together, so now counties coming up, they are hungry,” Coach Marino said. AL Johnson Sc Pl-Fanwood

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The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES

A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION

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Thursday, February 8, 2018

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The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES

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MATT RITTENDALE SCORES TWICE AGAINST MOUNTIES

Jay Cook Named Coach Of New Boys V-ball Team By BRUCE JOHNSON Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times

A boys volleyball team will start play as a varsity program this spring and its first head coach will be Jay Cook. He will be assisted by Dave Tarullo, who coached the WHS club team last spring with Chrissy Cabrales. Cook has spent the past two years as the junior varsity girls coach, learning the intricacies of the sport under longtime girls coach Bev Torok. His teams went 33-10, finishing second and then first in the Union County Jayvee Tournament. “I went to a couple of games last spring and saw a lot of talent,” Cook said. “Coach Tarullo told me, ‘I know you’re a baseball guy, but it would be great to have you here at the ground floor of this team, because I think it’s going to be something special.’ “I’m really a baseball guy, and it was tough to walk away. But I can still help baseball in the offseason. And to get a new program up and going, to have the sport not be a hobby, it was tough to turn down.” Cook (’02) won nine varsity letters during his days at WHS – in football as an end/defensive back, in basketball as a power forward and in baseball as a pitcher/outfielder. He earned all-county (twice) and all-state in baseball, and finished with a .404 career batting average that included a school-record 40game hitting streak. He also played baseball four years at Montclair State, mostly as a pitcher, and was team cocaptain as a senior. “I was a three-sport guy at Westfield, and I know the value of playing multiple sports, of cross training,” Cook said. “My goal is to take volleyball and have it turn a one-sport athlete into a two-sport athlete, or a two-sport athlete who takes the spring off into a three-sport athlete.” A big challenge for Cook and Tarullo will be getting the players to realize the sport is not the “over-on-one” or “batting it back and forth” sport that they play in gym class. “The only way they can break that habit is to take some spikes to the face,” Cook said, semi-joking. Last year’s team had 35 players, and Cook is hoping that number is closer to 50, to have enough for a jayvee team. The team’s official signup was yesterday. Last spring’s team featured two players Cook is hoping are foundationbuilders – junior Julian Trott and senior Corey Billings. There are now eight boys volleyball teams in Union County, with the Blue Devils joining Summit, Scotch PlainsFanwood, Union, Elizabeth, Linden, Roselle Catholic and Plainfield. A Union County Tournament is planned. Cook’s boys will open a 14-match schedule on April 3 at Summit, with archrival Scotch Plains-Fanwood providing the opposition in the home opener on April 5. WHS now has 29 varsity sports (14 for the boys, 14 for the girls, and one co-ed team – bowling. The only varsity sports that WHS doesn’t offer now are boys and girls fencing. FOOTBALL UPDATE The WHS football team’s schoolrecord and state-best 37-game winning streak will be put to the test during the 2018 season. The revamped Mid-State 39 schedule added Phillipsburg and Greater Middlesex Conference crossover foes Piscataway, Old Bridge and St. Joseph Metuchen to WHS’s schedule. Gone from the schedule are Franklin, Immaculata and Ridge, plus (sadly) archrival Scotch Plains-Fanwood, which WHS has played every year since 1961 except 1990. Since the NJSIAA playoffs began in 1974, WHS has won five sectional titles, including the last three years. P-burg was 10-2 last fall and has won seven titles. Piscataway was 8-3 and has captured nine titles. Old Bridge was 8-3 while St. Joseph went 9-1 in just its seventh year of existence. That’s a combined 35-9 last fall; the teams they’re replacing went 14-27. The complete 2018 WHS football schedule: scrimmages at Long Branch (Aug. 21), and home against West Orange (Aug. 24) and Pascack Valley (Aug. 30); regular-season games at Linden (Sept. 7), at Watchung Hills (Sept. 14), Old Bridge (Sept. 22), St. Joseph Metuchen (Sept. 29), at Union (Oct. 5), at Phillipsburg (Oct. 12), Elizabeth (Oct. 20), Piscataway (Oct. 27), TBA (Nov. 3, 10, 17), at Plainfield (Nov. 22), TBA (Nov. 29). Updated through 2017, New Jersey’s 10 winningest football programs: 1. Phillipsburg 685, 2. Montclair 644, 3. Paulsboro 635, 4. Westfield 633, 5. Hammonton 630, 6. Atlantic City 607, 7. Woodbury 597, 8. Millville 591, 9. Glassboro 582, 10. South River 575. WILL HISTORY REPEAT? The WHS boys swim team has a huge mountain to climb, assuming it gets a rematch with BridgewaterRaritan in the sectional final on Feb. 16, 4 p.m., at the Raritan Bay YMCA in Perth Amboy. The Panthers, who won last year’s sectional final on a controversial disqualification, drubbed the Blue Devils, 100-70, back on Dec. 1. And while overcoming that margin of defeat might not sound likely, recent history shows

that it can happen. In 2000, the boys team lost to Shawnee by 62 points (116-54) in December, the most lopsided loss in program history. Then the Renegades were beaten by Cherry Hill East in the South Jersey final. Facing an even bigger task, the shaved-and-tapered Blue Devils posted 49 lifetime best times (out of 60 swims) for an improbable 89.5-80.5 victory, arguably the biggest upset in state swimming history. That’s a 35.5point turnaround. There have been similar but smaller turnarounds, in 2001, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2013. And Bridgewater lost by 24

43 tables at the first dinner in 2009, and 21 at the 2013 event. The farthest reservations so far have come from Thailand (CJ Johnson) and somewhere in the South Pacific (Phil Light). Ironically, CJ and Flip were both in the Class of 1972 and played on the Devils in the 1964 Boys Football League. ON THIS DATE 2011: Former WHS athlete Paul Wampler (’87) was on the second day of a five-day run on Jeopardy that saw him win $75,000. AROUND THIS DATE Feb. 7, 1983: With distance star Andy

PAST AND PRESENT...Former WHS swimming star Dave Schwartz (second from right) visited a practice last week to wish current seniors Steve Warren (right) and Ryan Bebel (second from left) good luck as they try to break his 25year-old school record (57.52) in the 100 breaststroke. Also pictured is head coach Jeff Knight.

to WHS in last year’s regular season. The 2018 Devils started gaining momentum by posting some eye-opening times at the 2018 Union County championships. Seniors Ryan Bebel (1:56.09 IM; 52.55 back), Eric Bebel (21.85 50; 47.54 100), Colin Daniel (1:45.92 200; 51.41 butterfly), Steve Warren (57.66 breast), Jack Cifelli (54.33 butterfly), Teddy Diamantopolous (1:50.30 200; 49.80 100) and Conner Heffernan (22.61 50) were sensational. Juniors Cooper Prieto (22.55 50; 49.61 100) and Tom Brennan (1:01.42 breast) also had outstanding days. And they also had three outstanding relay victories: 1:36.86 medley; 1:28.15 200 free; 3:14.23 400 free. TABLES AVAILABLE If you would like to attend the third mythical Devil’s Den Dinner, there’s still time. Just send me an email at [email protected] with your graduating year from high school and your three (or four) people from any time in history, dead or living, that you would love to break bread with. The deadline for reservations is Sunday, Feb. 11, at noon. As of last Sunday there have been 38 tables reserved by WHS athletes, coaches, alumni and fans. There were

Jacob sidelined by a strep throat, Greg Kasko won the mile, finished third in the two-mile and teamed with Kevin McGorty to capture the high jump relay at the Union County Indoor Track Championships. The meet came down to the final relay, where the Minutemen edged the WHS team of Wayne Tiller, Billy Byrne, Kelvin Blanton and Rich Forbes to pull out a 40.5-40 victory. Feb. 9, 1986: With four of its top performers serving a team suspension, and after its first-place 400 free relay was disqualified, WHS had to share the Union County boys swimming championship with Summit. The Blue Devil divers got the tying points with a 4-5-9 finish in Sunday’s snow-delayed competition. Sophomore Chris McFadden won the 200 and 500 freestyle. The girls made it a sweep when Chrissy Diaz and Patty Berry finished 1-2 in the diving competition to edge Union Catholic. IN PASSING Dennis Edwards, lead singer of the Temptations, passed on Feb. 1 at age 74. After replacing David Ruffin, Edwards sang the lead on songs like “Cloud Nine,” “I Can’t Get Next To You,” “Ball of Confusion,” and then, in 1972, the awesome “Papa Was a Rolling Stone.”

Blue Devil Icemen Drop Thriller To No. 13 Summit, Top Montclair The Westfield High School boys ice hockey team continues to demonstrate that they belong among the top teams in the state this year. The Blue Devils answered more challenges last week as they had another close battle with their rival Summit Hilltoppers (No. 13 in the state of New Jersey) and defeated the Montclair Mounties (No. 16). Coincidentally both games ended with a score of 2-0. Despite a strong season thus far Westfield is unranked in the state and, like Rodney Dangerfield and Aretha Franklin, continues to seek respect…from Garden State hockey experts. The Summit game took place at Warinanco Ice Center in Roselle, the recently renovated iconic barn where the one-time county’s best Taylor Ham, egg and cheese sandwich has been replaced by an $8.95 Cobb salad. The crowd lacked the energy and intensity of the Union County Tournament final at Warinanco, won by Westfield earlier in the season, but not the players. It was a physical affair with plenty of chirping and lessthan-friendly introductions. The first period ended without any scoring. In the second period the Blue Devils appeared to take a 1-0 lead but the goal was disallowed by the referee with an unclear rationale. Another Westfield opportunity was cancelled out when the Summit goalie appeared to kick the goal off its moorings. The referees wearing stripes did not call a delay of game penalty and once again did not provide any further explanation. The Hilltoppers took advantage of

their good fortune and scored two second-period goals. A scoreless third period resulted in the 2-0 final favoring Summit. Junior goalie CJ Duffy was stout in goal, stopping 31 shots for the Blue Devils. In their second contest of the week the Blue Devils traveled to Montclair to battle the Mounties. The game was one of Westfield’s grittier performances of the season. The combination of Senior Captain Matt Rittendale – two goals including an unassisted shorthanded masterpiece – and goalie Duffy proved too much for Montclair to handle. Sophomore Trevor Tanella picked up the only apple of the game. Standout performances as penalty

killing beasts, physical forces and all round solid play were turned in by seniors Matt Cetlin, Sean Biglin, and junior Petey Buontempo. Super sophomore Dylan Howard was Selkeaward worthy with his play at both ends of the ice. Westfield is now 11-52 on the season and gearing up for post-season competition. Follow the WHS boys varsity ice hockey team on Twitter (@westfieldpuck) for an informative and entertaining take on the season’s activities. Fans can also visit the team website (westfieldicehockey.net) to see the schedule of upcoming games. Come on out and support the WHS boys varsity ice hockey team!

Photo courtesy of James Finver

GOING AFTER THE PUCK...Blue Devil Matt Cetlin, No. 14, goes after the puck in the game against the No. 13 Summit Hilltoppers.

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Patrick School Girls Roll Past Blue Devils in B-Bball, 57-43 By ALEX LOWE Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times

Alex Lowe for The Westfield Leader and The Times

LOOKING TO PASS THE BALL...Raider Tommy Drubulis, No. 4, considers passing the ball to a teammate in the game against Governor Livingston in Berkeley Heights on January 30. The Raiders topped the Highlanders, 58-42.

DRUBULIS SCORES 13 POINTS, LAYLOR LAYS IN 11 PTS

The Westfield High School girls varsity basketball team lost, 57-43, to The Patrick School on February 1 in Elizabeth. The Blue Devils played on even terms with the home team for much of the first half, battling to a 1414 tie midway through the second quarter but the Lady Celtics went on an 11-2 run that gave them a 25-16 lead. Westfield would grind and scrap back into the contest, closing out the half by scoring five straight points to pull within 25-21 at the break. “Westfield is an outstanding team,” said The Patrick School Head Coach Damel Ling. “Their coach does a really nice job over there and they are always going to give you their best shot. They are the kind of team that is not easily put away. They’ve got a great player in (Molly) Ryan and they are mentally tough. We got off to a

slow start against them. It was nip and tuck for a while. I think the game started to turn in our favor when we really started playing the passing lanes aggressively at the top when they were trying to get into a half-court offense. I think you saw that in the second and fourth quarters especially when our aggression led to turnovers and it just kind of blew up the offensive rhythm for them.” It was an uphill battle the rest of the way for the Blue Devils. Westfield struggled against The Patrick School’s aggressive defense, which turned up the heat from the midpoint of the second quarter forward. The Lady Celtics forced Westfield into turnover-after-turnover in the second half as they continued to answer any Westfield surges by quickly rebuilding leads with transition baskets. The game was played aggressively with players from both teams hitting

Raider Boys Nail 3’s to Topple GL Highlander Cagers, 58-42 By ALEX LOWE Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times

The Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School boys basketball team defeated Governor Livingston, 58-42, on January 30, in Berkeley Heights. Senior Tommy Drubulis scored 13 points to lead the Raiders, while fellow senior Dwight Laylor added 11 points to the cause. The Raiders buried eight, 3point shots during the contest, including five in the first 10 minutes of play, to build a commanding 27-11 lead. “We were on fire from behind the three-point line tonight,” said Drubulis, a guard. “That is a big part of our game when we are going good. It opens up the court for drives to the basket. This was a good game for us as we work to get ready for the tournaments.” Five different Raiders (Jayson Williams, Jack Brady, Drubulis, Laylor and Lamont Cruse) each hit a 3-pointer during the first 10 minutes of action, signifying the kind of balanced attack that Scotch Plains-Fanwood can bring to the floor on any given night. The long-range air attack softened up the Highlanders before a stifling Raider defensive effort kicked in. The Raiders held Governor Livingston to just three points in the second quarter as they took a 29-14 lead into the half. “I think that it opens up our offense when we get good defensive effort,” said SP-F Head Coach Steve Siracusa. “Everything stems from solid defense. It motivates everyone on the floor and creates transition opportunities. I think that what we saw tonight was a very unselfish approach on the offensive end. Everyone got involved.” Halfway through the third quarter Scotch Plains-Fanwood increased the advantage to 20, at 39-19 after a 3point play from Ryan Muench and a drive for a basket by Brady. Governor Livingston twice pulled to within 13 points but the Raiders answered each charge with runs of their own. SHERIFF’S SALE SHERIFF’S FILE NO.: CH-17005247 SUPERIOR COURT OF NEW JERSEY CHANCERY DIVISION UNION COUNTY DOCKET NO. F-019848-16 Plaintiff: THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON VS. Defendant: IRIS RIOS Sale Date: 02/21/2018 Writ of Execution: 11/01/2017 By virtue of the above-stated writ of execution to me directed I shall expose for sale by public vendue, at the Union County Administration Building, 1st Floor, 10 Elizabethtown Plaza, Elizabeth, New Jersey on Wednesday, at two o’clock in the afternoon of said day. All successful bidders must have 20% of their bid available in cash or certified check at the conclusion of the sales. The judgment amount is: ***Five Hundred Thirty-Eight Thousand Forty-Five and 40/100*** $538,045.40. All that certain land and premises situate, lying and being in the Township of Scotch Plains, County of Union, and State of New Jersey. Street: 2284 North Avenue, Scotch Plains, New Jersey 07076. Nearest Cross Street: Hetheld Avenue. Tax Lot and Block No: Lot: 6, Block: 8201. Dimensions (approx): 50 x 176 x 50 x 175. Prior Mortgage/Liens Not Extinguished By The Sale Are: 1. Delinquent taxes and/or tax liens. As the above description does not constitute a full legal description, said full legal description is annexed to that certain deed recorded in the Office of the Clerk of Union County in Deed Book 5601, Page 340, et seq., New Jersey, and the Writ of Execution on file with the Sheriff of Union County. Total Upset: ***Five Hundred Fifty-One Thousand Two Hundred Nine and 90/100*** $551,209.90 together with lawful interest and costs. The sale is subject to unpaid taxes and assessments, tax, water, and sewer liens, and other municipal assessments, if any. The amount due can be obtained from the local taxing authority pursuant to NJSA 46:813-21 this sale may be also subject to limited lien priority of any condominium/homeowner association liens which may exist. Any set of fact which an accurate survey would disclose; any restrictions or covenants on record which run with the land; rights of the United States of America, if any, any occupants or persons in possession of the property, if any additional municipal charges, liens, taxes or tax sale certificates and insurance, if any. A deposit of 20% of the bid price in certified funds is required at the time of sale. Surplus Money: If after the sale and satisfaction of the mortgage debt, including costs and expenses, there remains any surplus money, the money will be deposited into the Superior Court Trust Fund and any person claiming the surplus, or any part thereof, may file a motion pursuant to Court Rules 4:64-3 and 4:57-2 stating the nature and extent of that person’s claim and asking for an order directing payment of the surplus money. The Sheriff or other person conducting the sale will have information regarding the surplus, if any. There is a full legal description on file in the Union County Sheriff’s Office. The Sheriff reserves the right to adjourn this sale for any length of time without further advertisement. Peter Corvelli Sheriff Attorney: MATTLEMAN, WEINROTH & MILLER 401 RT 70 EAST SUITE 100 CHERRY HILL NEW JERSEY 08034 (856) 429-5507 4 T - 01/25, 02/01, 02/08 & 02/15/18 Fee: $210.12

“We respect every team we play,” said Siracusa. “We know we are going to get every team’s best effort. Our first goal has always been to stay focused and concentrate on winning the conference.” After Governor Livingston drew within 13 points, cutting the lead to 48-35 with just over five minutes remaining, the Raiders once again used the long ball to secure their victory. Muench drained a 3-point shot from the baseline to make it 51-35 with 4:33 to play. Then Drubulis delivered the dagger with another baseline three that made it 56-36 with just under three minutes on the clock. Matthew Schuman led Governor Livingston with 10 points. The Highlanders fell to 8-7 on the season with the loss. The Raiders improved to 142 with their only losses coming against Rahway and Union Catholic. The Raiders figure to be a high seed in the upcoming Union County Tournament. Williams had eight points for Scotch Plains-Fanwood, while Brady chipped in with seven points. The Raiders got

North 2, Section 2 Group 4 Wrestling Raider Matmen Edge Sayreville in Sections The fourth-seeded Scotch PlainsFanwood High School wrestling team defeated fifth-seeded Sayreville, 3832, in the first round of the North Jersey, Section 2, Group 4 Tournament in Scotch Plains on February 5. Each team won seven bouts but the 22-6 Raiders harvested more bonus points via pins and majority decisions. Raiders winning by pin were Alex Oslislo (182-lbs), Nick Palazzollo (170-lbs), Jack Cannon (145-lbs) and Jacob Perone (132-lbs). Zach Fleischman (160-lbs) and Mike Ramos (152-lbs) won by majority decision and Sam Wustefeld (220lbs) received a forfeit. The Raiders would be on the road next to face top-seeded Middletown North in the semifinals on February 7. SHERIFF’S SALE SHERIFF’S FILE NO.: CH-18000077 SUPERIOR COURT OF NEW JERSEY CHANCERY DIVISION UNION COUNTY DOCKET NO. F-009025-17 Plaintiff: CAPITAL ONE, N.A. VS. Defendant: ROBERT M. KATZ; AND CAROL LEE KATZ, HIS WIFE; NICHOLAS LAGANELLA; PARAMUS ASSOCIATES, LP; CURUO SCRAP METAL; INC.; AND MICHAEL CURCIO Sale Date: 03/07/2018 Writ of Execution: 12/07/2017 By virtue of the above-stated writ of execution to me directed I shall expose for sale by public vendue, at the Union County Administration Building, 1st Floor, 10 Elizabethtown Plaza, Elizabeth, New Jersey on Wednesday, at two o’clock in the afternoon of said day. All successful bidders must have 20% of their bid available in cash or certified check at the conclusion of the sales. The judgment amount is: ***Five Hundred Fifty-Four Thousand Seven Hundred Sixty-One and 45/100*** $554,761.45. PROPERTY TO BE SOLD IS LOCATED IN: Town of Westfield, County of Union, State of New Jersey. PREMISES COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 821 Bradford Avenue, Westfield, New Jersey 07090. TAX LOT # 31, BLOCK # 503. NEAREST CROSS STREET: Birch Avenue. APPROXIMATE DIMENSIONS: 124 X 125. The sale is subject to any unpaid taxes and assessments, tax, water, and sewer liens and other municipal assessments. The amount due can be obtained from the local taxing authority. All interested parties are to conduct and rely upon their own independent investigation to ascertain whether or not any outstanding interests remain of record and/or have priority over the lien being foreclosed and, if so, the current amount due thereon. **If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall only be entitled to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee’s attorney.** Total Upset: ***Five Hundred Sixty-Eight Thousand Eight Hundred Seventy-Eight and 13/100*** $568,878.13 together with lawful interest and costs. Surplus Money: If after the sale and satisfaction of the mortgage debt, including costs and expenses, there remains any surplus money, the money will be deposited into the Superior Court Trust Fund and any person claiming the surplus, or any part thereof, may file a motion pursuant to Court Rules 4:64-3 and 4:57-2 stating the nature and extent of that person’s claim and asking for an order directing payment of the surplus money. The Sheriff or other person conducting the sale will have information regarding the surplus, if any. There is a full legal description on file in the Union County Sheriff’s Office. The Sheriff reserves the right to adjourn this sale for any length of time without further advertisement. Peter Corvelli Sheriff Attorney: MILSTEAD & ASSOCIATES, LLC 1 EAST STOW ROAD MARLETON, NEW JERSEY 08053 (856) 482-1400 4 T - 02/08, 02/15, 02/22 & 03/01/18 Fee: $189.72

a boost from the return of John Petris in his second game back from injury after missing the entire season. The 6’5” Petris was in contention for a starting role before injuring his hand in practice. He scored five points against Governor Livingston. “It is nice to have him back out there with us again,” said Siracusa. “He can give us a little size inside and he does some things for us that help open the floor for us.” Scotch Plains-Fanwood currently sits in second place with an 8-1 record in the UCC Valley Division behind undefeated Rahway (10-0). The Raiders lost to the Indians in Rahway earlier this year in a close battle. The two squads were set for a rematch this week in Scotch Plains that would be absolutely essential for the Raiders to win if they were to have any hopes for catching Rahway in the final standings. Sc Pl-Fanwood Gov. Livingston

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North 2, Section 2 Group 3Wrestling Cougar Matmen Rip Leonia in Sections The top-seeded Cranford High School wrestling team lost only one bout in a 73-3 drudging of Leonia in the first round of the North Jersey, Section 2, Group 3 Tournament in Cranford on February 5. The only winner for Leonia was Scott Sander in a 5-2 decision at 126-lbs. At 120-lbs, Pat Kalnins recorded a pin. Jack Korzeneski recorded a pin at 138-lbs, followed by AJ Bencivenga at 145-lbs, Max Nock at 152-lbs, Kyell Roper at 160-lbs, Justin AlpaughMcLean at 170-lbs, Zach Blevins at 195-lbs then Matt Savino at 285-lbs. Will Fernandez (113-lbs) won by majority decision and Chris Hecht (132lbs) won by decision. Jimmy Gluck (106-lbs) and Rob Schork (220-lbs) received forfeits. The Cougars would host fourthseeded West Essex, 37-15 winners over Governor Livingston in the semifinals on February 7. SHERIFF’S SALE SHERIFF’S FILE NO.: CH-17005160 SUPERIOR COURT OF NEW JERSEY CHANCERY DIVISION UNION COUNTY DOCKET NO. F-022975-16 Plaintiff: CITIBANK, NA., NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE OF NRZ PASS-THROUGH TRUST VI VS. Defendant: GEORGE V. COOK, JR.; VIVIAN M. COOK; STATE OF NEW JERSEY Sale Date: 02/14/2018 Writ of Execution: 08/31/2017 By virtue of the above-stated writ of execution to me directed I shall expose for sale by public vendue, at the Union County Administration Building, 1st Floor, 10 Elizabethtown Plaza, Elizabeth, New Jersey on Wednesday, at two o’clock in the afternoon of said day. All successful bidders must have 20% of their bid available in cash or certified check at the conclusion of the sales. The judgment amount is: ***Five Hundred Sixty-Five Thousand One Hundred Thirty-Six and 78/100*** $565,136.78. Property to be sold is located in the Township of Westfield, County of Union and State of New Jersey. Commonly known as: 615 Maye Street, Westfield, New Jersey 07090. Tax Lot(s): 14 fka 15, in Block: 2301 fka 309. Dimensions (Approximately): 114 x 50. Nearest Cross Street: Harrison Avenue. Indicate lien information, if any, to be advertised pursuant to the Supreme Court decision of 10/28/99 - Summit Bank vs. Dennis Thiel (A-5898). Tax Sale Certificate Cert. No: 16-00010 Sold To: Twr as Cst for EbuiyFund2NJLLC Amount: $203.04 Dated: December 21, 2016 Recorded: January 17, 2017 Book: M14220 Page: 161 Total Upset: ***Five Hundred Eighty Thousand Eight Hundred Seventy-Eight and 94/100*** $580,878.94 together with lawful interest and costs. Surplus Money: If after the sale and satisfaction of the mortgage debt, including costs and expenses, there remains any surplus money, the money will be deposited into the Superior Court Trust Fund and any person claiming the surplus, or any part thereof, may file a motion pursuant to Court Rules 4:64-3 and 4:57-2 stating the nature and extent of that person’s claim and asking for an order directing payment of the surplus money. The Sheriff or other person conducting the sale will have information regarding the surplus, if any. There is a full legal description on file in the Union County Sheriff’s Office. The Sheriff reserves the right to adjourn this sale for any length of time without further advertisement. Peter Corvelli Sheriff Attorney: FRIEDMAN VARTOLO LLP 85 BROAD STREET NEW YORK NEW YORK 10004 (212) 471-5100 4 T - 01/18, 01/25, 02/01 & 02/08/18 Fee: $183.60

WHS Crew Team Raises Funds for New Quad WESTFIELD — Did you know that Westfield High School has a Crew Team? The WHS Crew Team, now in its 13th year as a competitive rowing club for high school boys and girls, has approximately 40 team members and competes in weekend regattas during the Fall and Spring seasons. On January 28, the Friends of Westfield Crew (FOWC), a 501(c)(3) charity, held its annual silent auction fundraiser at The Westwood in Garwood. The event raised $6,000, which will be used toward the purchase of a new quad scull (four-person racing boat). “A new quad is about the cost of a car, or approximately $25,000,” said Mike Canavan, a WHS Crew Team parent and organizer of the fundraiser. “Adding a new quad to our fleet will open up new races for our rowers, and enable them to be lighter and faster on the water. I rowed in college, so I know how expensive the equipment and expenses surrounding a competitive rowing squad are – there are racing shells, oars, a boat launch, trailers, storage and repairs. Thank you, local businesses, for your generosity and donations, and to everyone who supports the FOWC.” According to Quint Heyder, a WHS senior and one of the four Crew Team captains, “I have loved being part of this team for the past four years and consider myself lucky that WHS offers competitive rowing as a club sport. Crew has been such a huge part of my overall high school experience,

and it’s really important that we raise funds all year to be able to continue to offer Crew Team to WHS students, so that people, like my younger brother Jeremy, can participate in crew.” For more information, email [email protected] or visit www.WestfieldCrew.com.

the floor for loose balls and with the referees allowing for a lot of contact without making many calls. Whatever calls were made, seemed to go against the Blue Devils on most occasions. However, it was the Patrick School defense combined with some sloppy execution by the Blue Devils that was responsible for the final result. The Patrick School increased its advantage to 12 points at 39-27 late in the third quarter after LaShae Dwyer stole a pass and finished with a layup. As was the case most of the night, Westfield began to slowly roll the heavy stone back up the hill. Baskets by Samantha Stravach inside after a nice assist from Grace Elliott followed by a layup by Lily Maz pulled the Blue Devils to within five points at 39-34. With a chance to get closer, Westfield standout senior guard Molly Ryan went to the free throw line for a 1-and-1 opportunity. Ryan missed the front end and the Lady Celtics took advantage, grabbing the rebound and scoring on the other end. The Patrick School reconstructed its 12-point lead over the next two minutes to 49-37 with just five minutes to play. Westfield had run out of comeback efforts this time though and The Patrick School cruised to a 57-43 victory. The win left little doubt that despite its young roster, The Patrick School remains a step ahead of most of the competition in Union County at present. The Patrick School’s Brennah Cody led all scorers with 14 points followed by Dwyer (13 points). “We still have room for improvement,” said Ling. “We are a young group. We’ve got a lot of freshmen and sophomores in our rotation. Games like this one against a good, improved team definitely help us. Westfield fell to 11-6 with the loss but figures to receive a good seed in the upcoming Union County Tournament. Westfield Head Coach Liz McKeon declined comment after the game. Faith Dobosiewicz led Westfield scorers with 12 points and eight rebounds. Samantha Stravach had 10 points and six rebounds for the Blue Devils. Ryan scored nine points in defeat. Westfield The Pat School

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Week ending 1-26

David B. Corbin for The Westfield Leader and The Times

CRANFORD ATHLETES OF THE WEEK... Josiah Cadet (not in photo), a senior on the winter track team, placed second in the hurdles at the Union County Meet and was recently chosen as the USA T&F NJ 17-18 year old hurdles Athlete of the Year. Sasha Knapp, a junior on the winter track team, cleared a personalbest height of 4-10 in the high jump to lead the way for the Cougars at the Union County Meet. She also posted personal best times in the 55m dash and 55m hurdles. Sasha will be competing on Friday at the State Sectional Championships.

SHERIFF’S SALE SHERIFF’S FILE NO.: CH-17005231 SUPERIOR COURT OF NEW JERSEY CHANCERY DIVISION UNION COUNTY DOCKET NO. F-001522-17 Plaintiff: U.S. BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS LEGAL TITLE TRUSTEE FOR TRUMAN 2016 SC6 TITLE TRUST VS. Defendant: KRZYSZTOF CIARCZYNSKI; EWA CIARCZYNSKI, HUSBAND AND WIFE; AND MIDLAND FUNDING LLC Sale Date: 02/21/2018 Writ of Execution: 10/11/2017 By virtue of the above-stated writ of execution to me directed I shall expose for sale by public vendue, at the Union County Administration Building, 1st Floor, 10 Elizabethtown Plaza, Elizabeth, New Jersey on Wednesday, at two o’clock in the afternoon of said day. All successful bidders must have 20% of their bid available in cash or certified check at the conclusion of the sales. The judgment amount is: ***Three Hundred One Thousand One Hundred Ninety-Seven and 41/100*** $301,197.41. PROPERTY TO BE SOLD IS LOCATED IN: Township of Clark, County of Union, in the State of New Jersey. PREMISES COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 169 Lexington Boulevard, Clark, New Jersey 07066. TAX LOT 80, BLOCK 63. APPROXIMATE DIMENSIONS: 100 x 219. NEAREST CROSS STREET: Franklin Place. *Taxes - Current; * Sewer - Due in the approximate amount of $289.28 plus penalty; *Water - Private account; verification of same prohibited without authorization of record property owner; *Also subject to subsequent taxes, water and sewer plus interest through date of payoff. Total Upset: ***Three Hundred Nine Thousand Nine Hundred Fifty-Six and 17/100*** $309,956.17 together with lawful interest and costs. Surplus Money: If after the sale and satisfaction of the mortgage debt, including costs and expenses, there remains any surplus money, the money will be deposited into the Superior Court Trust Fund and any person claiming the surplus, or any part thereof, may file a motion pursuant to Court Rules 4:64-3 and 4:57-2 stating the nature and extent of that person’s claim and asking for an order directing payment of the surplus money. The Sheriff or other person conducting the sale will have information regarding the surplus, if any. There is a full legal description on file in the Union County Sheriff’s Office. The Sheriff reserves the right to adjourn this sale for any length of time without further advertisement. Peter Corvelli Sheriff Attorney: ROMANO GARUBO & ARGENTIERI COUNSELORS AT LAW LLC 52 NEWTON AVENUE P.O. BOX 456 WOODBURY NEW JERSEY 08096 (856) 384-1515 4 T - 01/25, 02/01, 02/08 & 02/15/18 Fee: $181.56

David B. Corbin for The Westfield Leader and The Times

UCC ATHLETES OF THE MONTH...Josiah Cadet (shown) and Hannah Capone will represent Cranford High School as the Union County Conference Athletes of the Month of February. Cadet and Capone are also CHS Athletes of the Week.

David B. Corbin for The Westfield Leader and The Times

CRANFORD ATHLETES OF THE WEEK...Hanna Capone, a junior on the winter track team, recently captured the North II Group III Sectional Title in the pole vault with a personal best of 9’3”. Hannah will represent Cranford High School in the State Group III Championships. Ryan Malko, a senior captain on the varsity ice hockey team, has been a leader for the Cougars this season and recently scored a hat trick in the Cougars victory over West Essex. Ryan also leads the team in goals and assists with 16 goals and 11 assists.

The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES

A WATCHUNG COMMUNICATIONS, INC. PUBLICATION

Thursday, February 8, 2018

Page 13

WICHELNS PUMPS IN 20 POINTS, SANTARELLI 18 POINTS

Cranford Cougar Girls Claw Rahway in Basketball, 63-35 By ALEX LOWE Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times

The Cranford High School girls basketball team throttled Rahway, 63-35, in a game played on February 3 at Rahway High School. Senior Camryn Wichelns led all scorers with 20 points, while teammate Lauren Santarelli, also a senior, chipped in with 18 points. The win was Cranford’s second in a row after losing five of six games and raised their season mark to 8-9 overall. “We had been in a scoring slump for a while now,” said Wichelns, who will play basketball at Christopher

ing, Cranford made sure this game was settled early. The Cougars exited the first quarter with a 17-7 lead. It was more of the same in the second quarter as Cranford continued to show a high level of execution on the offensive end that was made all the more effective by a solid defensive performance that kept the Rahway offense off balance. Cranford held a 27-16 lead at the break. The third quarter is where the Cougars went for the kill. Cranford went on a 12-0 run in the first two minutes of the quarter and surged to a 23-point

rebounds) and Caroline McCaffery (5 points, 6 rebounds). Nobody will confuse Rahway with teams like the Patrick School or Roselle Catholic. Despite the presence of standout player Wil’Lisha Jackson (19 points, 15 rebounds), the Indians are just 215 on the season. But that did not change the fact that Cranford looked as good as they have looked in weeks. The strong Cougar performance came on the heels of an equally impressive, 64-47 win over Union in their previous game. The return to form of the offense that had been

David B. Corbin for The Westfield Leader and The Times

GOING FOR THE DOUBLE-LEG TAKEDOWN...Blue Devil Isaiah Reese, right, goes for and gets a double-leg takedown on Cougar Kyell Roper in his 160-lb bout. Reese claimed an 8-3 victory over Roper.

Newport College in Virginia next year. “We lost three games that were close, two of which were one-point losses. If we had been just a little better offensively, we’d have a much better record right now.” Wilchelns refers to a three-game stretch in which Cranford lost to Westfield, 40-39, and Johnson, 41-40, sandwiched around a five-point loss to Union Catholic in which the Cougars managed just 27 points. The scoring woes were a thing of the past against Rahway though. Against the host Indians, Cranford performed like a welloiled machine from the opening tip. The Cougars scored early and often versus a Rahway team that seemed helpless to stop them. Whether it was outside shooting, strong drives to the basket or through nifty interior pass-

Clark

lead at 39-16. A 3-point shot by Lauren Santarelli extended the bulging lead to 50-20 with 3:30 remaining in the third quarter. Cranford outscored the home team 25-6 in the quarter. “We’ve been driving the ball to the basket more confidently the past couple of games,” said Wilchelns. “That just opens things up for our perimeter game and with players like Caroline Kelly and others really shooting the ball well right now it makes a very good offense and tough for other teams to stop.” Staked to a 30-point lead, Cranford Head Coach Jackie Dyer was able to play the fourth quarter, while dipping deep into her bench rotation. It made no difference. The Cougars continued to dominate, getting strong efforts from Olivia Speer (6 points, 8

$439,000

missing in action could not have come at a better time for Cranford with upcoming games against Westfield, Plainfield, Scotch Plains-Fanwood and Pope John, all teams with winning records and the seedings for the Union County Tournament set to be released this week. Facing perhaps the most challenging stretch of the season, Dyer is confident in where her team stands. “We are in a good spot. Every team goes through slumps during their season. I’m glad ours happened earlier in the schedule. We are playing good defense right now and everything else kind of gets better because of that. If we are flat defensively then we are probably going to be flat on offense as well.” Cranford Rahway

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Plainfield

explosive,” Weber said. At 195-lbs, Cougar Zach Blevins recorded a spin-behind takedown and converted a defensive takedown to a nearfall to top Brendan Loder, 7-1. Cougar Dylan Budnik, using a singleleg takedown and a double-leg takedown, beat Matt Dente, 5-2, at 220-lbs then Cougar Matt Savino received a forfeit at 285-lbs to give his team an 18-16 lead. The rest was all Westfield. Jake Bencivenga pinned Brandon Reilly in 43 seconds with an arm bar/half nelson at 106-lbs. CJ Composto rocked Will Fernandez to sleep in 52 seconds with a cradle at 113-lbs. Luke Hoerle (120-lbs) received a forfeit. Quinn Gimblette’s cradle-like takedown in the third period rewarded him with a 6-5 victory over Pat Kalnins at 126-lbs then Jeremy Silber recorded numerous takedowns and nearfalls before pinning Chris Esposito in 5:39 with an arm bar/half nelson. “We have a ton of people out right now. We brought up a lot of our JV guys trying to pull off this win but a lot of situations didn’t go our way. As a team we got to look better and wrestle for sections with everybody back in the room,” Bencivenga said. “I would say this was a team effort. Everybody wrestled. Getting into this

on to win 5-4. “Our coach says if your opponent brings you down and you bounce right up, you really break him. That kind of resonated with me and any time he picked me up, I bouced back up. I wasn’t going to be taken down and staying flat,” Weber said. Weber did record a low backdoor takedown in the second period and sealed the deal with a reversal in the third period. “I don’t like to shoot in matches. I like upper body throws but it felt good to finally finish a move,” Weber said. “Russ did a great job. It took him a little while to wake up in his match. That was a toss up match. Coming in we were planning for their full team, that was one that we had to have. Russ fell behind but he did a real nice job battling back and showed some guts. That’s what we talk about wrestling for your team and he did that tonight,” Coach Kurz said. “To bounce up. That really comes from the practice room. We all practice really hard with our teammates. Johnny Heard, Brendan Loder and Matt Dente are my practice partners. We take a lot of pride working with each other, working hard and pushing each other in the room. And that’s when we can come out here and be

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Westfield Raps GL In Wrestling, 56-13 Shortly off an exciting victory over Rahway, the Westfield High School wrestling team overwhelmed the hosting Governor Livingston Highlanders, 56-13, on January 31. CJ Composto (113-lbs), Luke Hoerle (120-lbs), Jeremy Silber (132-lbs) and Russ Weber (182-lbs) all recorded pins. Sean Dwyer (145-lbs), Jon Heard (195-lbs) and Matt Dente (220-lbs) received forfeits. Isaiah Reese (160-lbs) won a 17-5, major decision over Joe Scalora, Quinn Gimblette (126-lbs) won via 12-2, major decision over Chris Savino, Jake Bencivenga (106-lbs) decisioned Alex Moriak, 8-3, and Mike Price (138-lbs) beat Greg Friedenberg, 4-3. For GL, Quinn Haddad (170-lbs) won a 16-3, major decision over Tim Miller, James Snyder (152-lbs) beat Jordan Smpson, 6-1, and Damon Ippolito (285-lbs) received a forfeit. PUBLIC NOTICE TOWNSHIP OF SCOTCH PLAINS UNION COUNTY, NEW JERSEY NOTICE TO BIDDERS NOTICE is hereby given that sealed bids will be received by the Township of Scotch Plains, in the County of Union, State of New Jersey, at the office of the Township Clerk, Scotch Plains Municipal Building, 430 Park Avenue, Scotch Plains, New Jersey, 07076 (Attention: Bozena Lacina, Township Clerk) until 10:00 a.m. on February 27, 2018 prevailing time for “EAST SECOND STREET” (SEC. 3) MILLING & TOP COURSE PAVING, CONTRACT E2016-2.” Major items and approximate quantities for this project are: Concrete Sidewalk – 400 Square Yards Belgian Block Curb – 779 Linear Feet Milling, 2 inch Depth – 19,300 Square Yards Hot Mix Asphalt 9.5M64 Surface Course – 2,510 Tons 4 inch Traffic Striping, Thermoplastic – 7,483 Linear Feet This project will be partially funded by the New Jersey Department of Transportation, Bureau of Local Aid. At the time and place stated above, such bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. No bids shall be received other than at the time and place herein designated for their receipt, unless mailed to the Township Clerk for receipt at the designated time and place. Copies of the Bid Documents may be obtained during regular business hours from the Township Engineer’s Office upon payment of $50 for each complete set of documents, which sum is non-refundable, beginning February 8, 2018. Written questions regarding the bid specifications may be submitted to the Township Engineer, at 430 Park Avenue, Scotch Plains, New Jersey 07076 on or before February 15, 2018. A certified check, cashier’s check or bid bond in the amount of ten percent (10%) of the bid, but in no case in excess of twenty thousand dollars ($20,000), must be submitted with the bid guaranteeing that if a contract is awarded, the bidder shall execute the contract. Bidders must also submit a Consent of Surety with the bid, wherein the Surety agrees to furnish a performance bond if the Bidder is awarded the contract. Bidders are required to comply with the requirements of N.J.S.A. 10:5-31 et seq. and N.J.A.C. 17:27 and all other applicable statutes, laws or regulations. Bidders are required to submit a valid Business Registration Certificate from the State of New Jersey Department of Treasury, Division of Revenue. Each bid shall be enclosed in a sealed envelope addressed to the Township Clerk, bearing the name and address of the bidder, upon which shall be designated: “EAST SECOND STREET” (SEC. 3) MILLING & TOP COURSE PAVING, CONTRACT E2016-2" The Township reserves the right to reject any and all bids under the provisions of N.J.S.A. 40A:11-13.2. By Order of the Township of Scotch Plains, New Jersey. Alexander Mirabella, Municipal Manager Bozena Lacina, Township Clerk 1 T - 2/8/18, The Times Fee: $67.83

Raider Matmen Rout Union Farmers, 62-6 The Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School wrestling team took top honors in 12 of 14 bouts to defeat the Union Farmers, 62-6, on January 31. Sam Wustefeld recorded a pin at 220lbs as did Nick Palazzollo (170-lbs), Zach Fleischman (160-lbs) and Mike Ramos (152-lbs). Jack Cannon (145lbs) recorded a 21-6, technical fall, Ed Smith (285-lbs), Kyle Robinson (126-lbs) and Matt Fleck (138-lbs) won by decision. Kyle Rigney (106lbs), Mike Fleck (113-lbs), Eric DeMaria (120-lbs) and Alex Oslislo (182-lbs) received forfeits. The two wins by the Farmers came from Elijah Waldron (132-lbs) and Dan Torres (195-lbs). PUBLIC NOTICE TOWN OF WESTFIELD INVITATION TO BID Sealed proposals will be received by the Town of Westfield in the Council Chambers at the Municipal Building, 425 East Broad Street, Westfield, New Jersey, at 10:00 AM prevailing time on Wednesday, March 14, 2018, for the “2018 VARIOUS STREET IMPROVEMENTS IN THE TOWN OF WESTFIELD, NEW JERSEY”. The work under this Proposal includes the furnishing of all labor, materials and equipment necessary to complete the work as shown on the Contract Drawings and described in the Contract Specifications, and Proposals shall be in accordance with such Drawings and Specifications and the terms proposed in the Contract. The major items of work under this contract include, but are not limited to, the following in estimated quantities: 1,025 tons of 2 inch thick Hot Mix Asphalt Surface Course 8,000 square yards of Milling, Variable thickness 2,585 square feet of Concrete Walk, 4 inch Thick 4,100 square feet of Concrete Walk, 6 inch Thick 3,350 linear feet of Granite Block Curb All bidders must submit with their bid a copy of their New Jersey Business Registration Certificate. Failure to submit proof of registration will disqualify the bid. Proposals shall be in writing on the forms furnished and must be delivered at the place and before the hour above mentioned, and must be accompanied by a certified check or bid bond payable to the Town of Westfield in an amount equal to at least ten percent (10%) of the base amount of the bid, but not less than $500.00 nor more than $20,000.00. (N.J.S.A. 40A:1121) Each bid must also be accompanied by a Surety Company Certificate stating that said Surety company will provide the bidder with the required Performance bond in the full amount of the Contract (N.J.S.A. 40A:11-22), by a Non-Collusion Affidavit and a Contractor’s Qualification Statement, Statement of Ownership, on the forms included in and explained in the contract documents. Bidders are required to comply with the requirements of N.J.S.A. 10:5-31 et seq. and N.J.A.C. 17:27 et seq. and must pay workmen the prevailing wage rates promulgated by the New Jersey State Department of Labor and Industry for this project, copies of which are on file in the Office of the Town Engineer. Plans and specifications may be seen or procured ($50.00) at the office of the Town Engineer, Public Works Center, 959 North Avenue West, Westfield, New Jersey. The Mayor and Council reserve the right to reject any bid, and to waive any informality in any bid, if in the interest of the Town, it is deemed advisable to do so. Kris J. McAloon Town Engineer 1 T - 2/8/18, The Leader Fee: $60.69

The Cranford High School girls basketball team got stung at home twice by the Union Catholic Vikings, 32-27, on January 27 and by the AL Johnson Crusaders, 41-40, on January 30. Madison Johnson led the Lady Vikings with 13 points, while Izzy DiDario sank nine points and Erin McNully scored eight points. Camryn Wichelns put in eight points and Lauren Santarelli netted five points for the Cougars. Caroline Kelly, Caroline McCaffery and Olivia Speer each had four points and Charlotte VanWhy added two points. Kristine Palella led the Crusaders with 20 points and Amy Wysocki scored 11 points. Kelly had nine points for the Cougars. Wichelns had nine points, eight rebounds and five assists, Speer had nine points and KC Pringle had four points, nine rebounds and two blocks. VanWhy had four points, five rebounds and three assists, and McCaffery add two points.

Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School boys basketball Head Coach Steve Siracusa witnessed his hometown New Providence Pioneers pull off a stunning 61-57, double overtime victory over his Raiders in Scotch Plains on February 3. The 15-3 Raiders sank eight 3-pointers and were led by Tommy Drubulis with 16 points, including three 3-pointers. Ryan Muench also sank trip 3-pointers, Lamont Cruse (3-pointer) had 10 points and Jack Brady scored nine points, including a 3-pointer. Dwight Laylor had five points and Jayson Williams had four points, while John Petris and Justin Guy each netted two points. The Pioneers did not go the 3-point route but did get double figures from four of their players — Brian Kelly (14 points), Sean Dillon (13 points), Dylan Bedder (12 points) and Richie Wawzycki (11 points). Pat Trezza was right behind with nine points.

Union Catholic Cranford AL Johnson Cranford

New Prov SPF

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Lady Cougars Halt Union Cagers, 64-47 Camryn Wichelns had a huge evening across the boards, with a game-leading 18 points with four 3pointers, 11 rebounds, seven assists and five steals as the Cranford High School girls basketball team stopped the hosting Union Farmers, 64-47, on February 1. Caroline Kelly scored 13 points and added four rebounds and two steals, and Lauren Santarelli scored eight points, including a pair of 3-pointers, and had two assists. Caroline McCaffery had seven points and three rebounds, Olivia Speer had 10 points with a 3-pointer and added four rebounds, KC Pringle had four points and Charlotte VanWhy added four points and four rebounds. Allison Seater scored 16 points and Krizia Aponte scored 14 points for the Farmers. Cranford Union

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Raider Cagers Defeat Cougar Boys, 61-33 The Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School boys basketball team improved to 15-2 with a 61-33 victory over the hosting Cranford Cougars on February 1. Ryan Muench lead all scorers with 17 points, including five 3-pointers, and Jack Brady sank 11 points, including a pair of 3-pointers. Anthony Araujo led the Cougars with seven points, including a 3-pointer. Dwight Laylor and John Petris each had seven points for the Raiders. Lamont Cruse had six points, Tommy Drubulis had five points and Brogan Quigley had two points, while Tom Laucik and Jayson Williams each hit a 3-pointer. Cougar Matt Medeiros had six points, Jeremy Ruka had five points and Hunter Goff had four points, while Kevin Easse and Matt Fonseca each had three points. Sc Pl-Fanwood Cranford

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PUBLIC NOTICE TOWNSHIP OF SCOTCH PLAINS ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT RESOLUTION WHEREAS, the Zoning Board of Adjustment the Township of Scotch Plains will require the services of a Consulting Planner during the year 2018; and WHEREAS, the Local Public Contracts Law, N.J.S.A. (40 A-11-1et seq.), requires that the Resolution authorizing the award of a contract for professional services without competitive bids be publicly advertised; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Zoning Board of Adjustment of the Township of Scotch Plains, New Jersey, that Mary M. Moody, AICP, P.P., 191 Stony Brook Road, Branchburg, New Jersey, be appointed Consulting Planner to the Zoning Board of Adjustment for the period effective from January 11, 2018 to December 31, 2018 for planning reviews and board meeting attendance and, on an “as needed basis”. This contract is awarded without competitive bidding as a “professional service” under the provisions of said Local Public Contracts Law because the services are of such a qualitative nature as will not permit the receipt of competitive bids due to the subjective difference in the work product of such persons and the fact that the ethical requirements of such professionals will not permit such bidding. Shannon Rapant Land Use Secretary 1 T - 2/8/18, The Times Fee: $32.13

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Blue Devil Boys Stop Dickinson, 79-75 The Westfield High School boys basketball team went on a 3-point rampage, netting 12, to stop the hosting Dickinson boys, 79-75, on February 3. Griffin Rooney (22 points) and Adam McDaniel (17 points) each sank four 3-pointers. Matt Crowley (4 steals) bucketed 15 points, including a 3-pointer, Mark Natiello (7 rebounds, 5 assists) scored 12 points, Sebastian Ferrero (3-pointer) had five points, Luke Spellman and Mike Kane each nailed a 3-pointer and Adam Perry had two points. Westfield gained a halftime lead and some much needed momentum when Crowley hit a buzzer-beating 30 foot shot. The Blue Devils were able to maintain that lead until the Rams capitalized on two turnovers to take a one point lead with less than a minute to play. Spellman drained a clutch 3-pointer with 40 seconds remaining to re-take the lead, and from there Natiello and Rooney each made two foul shots to secure the victory. Tyrek Battle-Holley (4 3-pointers) scored 35 points and pulled 15 rebounds and Dezmel Burrows-Lynes (3 3-pointers) scored 19 points for Dickinson. Westfield Dickinson

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St. Mary Cagers Top Blue Devil Boys, 67-50 The St. Mary (Elizabeth) boys basketball team defeated the visiting Westfield Blue Devils, 67-50, on February 1. Jay’von Jackson and Papie Roberts each netted 18 points for St. Mary, while Luke Spellman led the Blue Devils with four 3-pointers for 12 points. Dylan Jackson and Mark Natiello each bucketed eight points for Westfield. Adam McDaniel and Griffin Rooney each scored seven points and Matt Crowley scored six points. Westfield St. Mary

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PUBLIC NOTICE TOWNSHIP OF SCOTCH PLAINS ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT RESOLUTION WHEREAS, the Zoning Board of Adjustment of the Township of Scotch Plains will require the services of an Attorney during the year 2018; and WHEREAS, the Local Public Contracts Law, N.J.S.A. (40 A-11-1et seq.), requires that the Resolution authorizing the award of a contract for professional services without competitive bids be publicly advertised; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Zoning Board of Adjustment of the Township of Scotch Plains, New Jersey, that Vincent K. Loughlin, Esq., an attorney of the State of New Jersey with the Loughlin Law Firm, 1838 East Second Street, Scotch Plains, New Jersey, be appointed Attorney to the Zoning Board of Adjustment for the period effective from January 11, 2018 to December 31, 2018. This contract is awarded without competitive bidding as a “professional service” under the provisions of said Local Public Contracts Law because the services are of such a qualitative nature as will not permit the receipt of competitive bids due to the subjective difference in the work product of such persons and the fact that the ethical requirements of such professionals will not permit such bidding. Shannon Rapant Land Use Secretary 1 T - 2/8/18, The Times Fee: $31.62

On Super Bowl Sunday, some Super Bowl-esque like performances highlighted Week 8 action in the Fanwood-Scotch Plains “Y” Men’s 30+ Basketball League. Talkin’ Bout Practice 67, Triples ‘n Dimes 51: Trailing by two at halftime, TBP rallied behind veteran forward Joe Encarnacion (19 points, five from beyond the arc), outscoring TND, 35-17, after intermission. The backcourt of Scott Lowder (13) and Eric Halpin (10) joined Encarnacion in double figures, while Joe DeGennaro (10 boards) and Dave Berger (7 rebounds) each had 8 tallies. The Triple Dimers, losers of three straight, received 16 points apiece from Stephen Murray and Tim Gray, 7-and-7 from Doug Barker, and a pair of 6’s from Rich Cobbinah and rookie David Agnew. Basket Brawlers 64, Game Over 55: Warren Lowe came within one field goal of matching the output of the Super Bowl champion Eagles, fashioning a scintillating 38-point (4 treys), 9-rebound outing to carry the Brawlers to their third consecutive victory. Chris Beaudry doubledoubled (10 and 13), and Ara Movsesian swiped eight caroms in support of Lowe. Gavin Ford paced G.O., down four after stanza one, with 21 points and 9 rebounds, Geoff Gonzales had 11, and Greg Shea 10 in a losing cause.

Run It Back! 46, Team 8 32: A balanced attack and stingy defense helped RIB back to the .500 level. Gregg Carder and Graham Haskell both finished with 12 markers, Greg Josephsen tossed in 11, and first-year center Mark Van Ostenbridge stood tall with seven and eight. Team 8, held to below 30 percent shooting, were led by super soph Chris Burke (12) and Capt. Blake Sonnek-Schmelz (12). Throwbacks 63, Droppin’ Dimes 51: Jamal Berry, the league’s all-time leader in points and rebounds, put on a dazzling Super Bowl pre-game show with 33 and 12, as the Throwbacks bounced back from a Week 7 forfeiture. Diaper dandy Orlando JeanCharles was huge as well with 19 points and 6 boards, and Jason Holley contributed 6 and 12. The hard-luck Dimes, tied at 38-38 before a Berryfueled run, were propelled by Eljay Aguillo (19 points, 5 from downtown), while frontcourt mates Craig Cichocki and Steve Lee netted 10 and 9, respectively. FSPY 30+ STANDINGS: TEAM W Throwbacks 7 Talkin’ Bout Practice 6 Game Over 4 Run It Back! 4 Basket Brawlers 4 Triples ‘n Dimes 3 Team 8 3 Droppin Dimes 1

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Westfield Devilfish Swimmers Compete at BAC Pro Bowl The Westfield Area ‘Y’ Devilfish swim team was represented by over 50 swimmers at the BAC Pro Bowl, which was hosted by Berkeley Aquatic Club in New Providence on January 27 and 28. Collectively, they captured first place in 13 individual events, and many swimmers attained qualifying times for the upcoming championship meets. 9-10 GIRLS: Sophia Fussman (2nd 50-breast), Ashley Gao (3rd 50breast), Jacqueline Moser (2nd 100breast), Catherine Ritter (2nd 50back) 9-10 BOYS: Michael Fisher (3rd

Lady Blue Devils Halt ALJ B-ballers, 45-21 After a bit of a defensive struggle in the first half, the 12-6 Westfield High School girls basketball team found the mark to bucket 29 of its points in the second half to defeat the visiting 6-11 AL Johnson Crusaders, 45-21, on February 3. Samantha Stravach scored 12 points and added seven rebounds and an assist, and Molly Ryan sank nine points, had six steals and added three rebounds. Grace Elliott netted six points and added seven rebounds, three steals and two assists. Faith Dobosiewicz scored four points, pulled six rebounds and added three steals, two assists and a blocked shot. Caroline Dwyer had seven points, including the Blue Devils’ only 3pointer, and added a rebound, an assist and a steal. Lily Maz had six points, two rebounds, two assists and a steal. Josie Greenwood scored one point and added a steal and a rebound. Lauren Sgro had three rebounds, two assists and a block. Ali Lisanti had a rebound, Emma Pietrewicz had an assist and Mary McHugh had a block. Whitney Shyposh provided defense. Amy Wysocki hit trip 3-pointers for the Crusaders and Kristina Palella scored six points, while Bailey Rosenmeier and Allie Brown each netted three points. AL Johnson Westfield

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PUBLIC NOTICE TOWNSHIP OF CRANFORD PLANNING BOARD NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING In accordance with the ordinances of the Township of Cranford and the statutes of the State of New Jersey, Notice is hereby served that an application for development, Application No. PBA-18-00003 to be located in Zone: 215-235 Birchwood Avenue Redevelopment Area, on the premises known as the Address: 215 Birchwood Avenue, Cranford, New Jersey, Block No. 292, Lot No. 2 and 235 Birchwood Avenue, Cranford, New Jersey, Block No. 291, Lot No. 15.01, has been submitted by Applicant: Birchwood Developers Urban Renewal Associates, LLC of 820 Morris Turnpike Short Hills, New Jersey 07078. Preliminary and final site plan pursuant to the Birchwood Redevelopment Plan which calls for multi-family residential redevelopment. The proposed development is 225 units of which 34 are affordable housing. Applicant also requests any other relief the Board requires which may include variances, permits and waivers. The Planning Board will conduct a public hearing on this matter on Wednesday, February 21, 2018 at 8:00 p.m., in Room 107 of the Cranford Township Municipal Building, 8 Springfield Avenue, Cranford, New Jersey 07016. Any person or persons affected by this application will have an opportunity to present any objections to the proposed development. The Board does, however, have the right to exclude repetitious testimony. All documents relating to this application may be inspected by the public Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. in the Zoning/Planning Department, Cranford Township Municipal Building, 8 Springfield Avenue, Cranford, New Jersey 07016. Gary S. Goodman, Esq. Attorney for: Birchwood Developers Urban Renewal Associates, LLC 1 T - 2/8/18, The Leader Fee: $42.33

Correction on Turnof On page 14 of the the headline “Turnof Sisters Qualify in Fencing District 3”, it was incorrectly assumed that they were sisters. Both are Westfield residents, but as it turns out, they actually come from two separate, unrelated families. Sorry for the assumption!

Reading is Good For You

goleader.com/subscribe PUBLIC NOTICE BOROUGH OF MOUNTAINSIDE BOARD OF EDUCATION The regular meeting of the Mountainside Board of Education originally scheduled for Tuesday, June 26, 2018, has been rescheduled to Tuesday, June 12, 2018, at 7:00 p.m., at the Beechwood School Susan O. Collier Media Center located at 1497 Woodacres Drive, Mountainside, New Jersey 07092. 1 T - 2/8/18, The Leader

Fee: $11.22

PUBLIC NOTICE TOWNSHIP OF CRANFORD REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS/ QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE PROVISION OF LEGAL AND OTHER PROFESSIONAL SERVICES The Township of Cranford is soliciting proposals through a fair and open process in accordance with N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.4 et seq. Sealed RFP responses will be received by the Township Clerk on Wednesday, February 21, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. in the office of the Township Clerk, Municipal Building, 8 Springfield Avenue, Cranford, New Jersey 07016, at which time and place responses will be opened for: ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT ATTORNEY Submission packages may be obtained at the Township Clerk’s Office, (908) 7097210, during regular business hours, 8:30 A.M. to 4:00 P.M., Monday through Friday, excluding holidays, or by downloading the documents on the Township’s website: https://www.cranfordnj.org/bids. Registration on the Township’s website is required. Respondents shall comply with the requirements of N.J.S.A. 10:5-31 et seq. and N.J.A.C. 17:27. A copy of your New Jersey Business Registration Certificate shall be included with your proposal. Patricia Donahue, RMC Municipal Clerk 1 T - 2/8/18, The Leader Fee: $30.60

House to share, one private bedroom with new oak floor, new paint and window treatments, shared bathroom with one adult. Living room with fireplace, formal dining room, eat in large kitchen, full laundry room, off street parking, large fenced in yard in quiet, prestigous neighborhood, 10 minute walk to train. $1000 a month and partial utilities. Non smoking, no pets. Must have references. (908) 377-6761 FITNESS EQUIPMENT FOR SALE

Mayor Mahr Featured on NJ Planning Conf. Panel FANWOOD – Fanwood Mayor Colleen Mahr served as a panelist January 26 on the “Who Runs the World? Girls! Power, Money, and Law” session during the New Jersey Planning Conference in New Brunswick. Mayor Mahr shared her experiences in public service, highlighting her efforts to revitalize Fanwood, alongside five other influential women on the panel. “Being on this panel was a great opportunity, not only was I able share my stories about Fanwood and my experiences in public service, but I also was able to interact with my fellow panelists and participants on how we can all improve our communities,” Mayor Mahr said. As a result of Mayor Mahr’s efforts to revamp buildings in downtown Fanwood into captivating retail and residential spaces, the borough has seen a boost in economic growth and investments. The story of redevelopment in Fanwood has become a case study in small-town transit-orienteddevelopment. Spurning the traditional approach of having a single developer work with local government to assemble properties through eminent domain, Mayor Mahr and Fanwood PUBLIC NOTICE TOWNSHIP OF CRANFORD ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT In accordance with the ordinances of the Township of Cranford, and the statutes of the State of New Jersey, Notice is hereby served upon you that an application for development, Application No. ZBA-17-025 to be located in Zone: B-D, on the premises known as 115 Miln Street, Cranford, New Jersey 07016, Block No. 187, Lot No. 13, has been submitted by: Florin Traistaru of 115 Miln Street 2F, Cranford, New Jersey 07016. The proposed development involves and requires the granting of relief from the following requirements of the ordinance so as to permit: D3 variance-to change the use of the bottom floor from a principal permitted use (retail use) to a dentist office(conditional use) of an existing mixed-use building at 115 Miln Street and any additional relief that may be required from the board. The Zoning Board will conduct a public hearing on this matter on February 26, 2018, 8pm at 8:15 p.m. in Room 107 of the Cranford Township Municipal Building, 8 Springfield Avenue, Cranford, New Jersey. Any person or persons affected by this application will have an opportunity to present any objections to the proposed development. The Board does, however, have the right to exclude repetitious testimony. All documents relating to this application may be inspected by the public Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. in the Planning/Zoning Department, Cranford Township Municipal Building, 8 Springfield Avenue, Cranford, New Jersey. Applicant: Florin Traistaru 115 Miln Street 2F Cranford, New Jersey 07016 1 T - 2/8/18, the Leader Fee: $38.76

PUBLIC NOTICE

officials worked hand-in-hand with local property owners to create a cohesive and updated downtown. This approach empowered the local businesses and helped to retain beloved local institutions while making way for additional growth. Recognized by the State of New Jersey with inclusion in the New Jersey Redevelopment Handbook as well as receiving the 2014 Smart Growth Award for their transit-oriented-development project, the borough was tapped to host the October 2017 New Jersey Redevelopment Authority for a workshop directed to planners and developers facing similar challenges. The other speakers included Union Township Committeewoman Michèle DelisfortandSummitMayorNoraRadest. PUBLIC NOTICE BOROUGH OF GARWOOD PLANNING BOARD SPECIAL MEETING PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that on Wednesday, February 21, 2018 the Planning Board will convene for a Special Meeting at 8:00 pm. at 403 South Avenue, Garwood, New Jersey to hear: Case # PB17-06. Applicant: South Ave Urban Renewal, LLC (Continuation), 400, 450-490 South Avenue & 50 and 70 Center Street, (B 401, Lots 1, 2, 4, 5) within the South Avenue Transit Oriented Redevelopment Area -Seeking Preliminary and Final Site Plan Approval. Action may be taken. The regularly scheduled February 28, 2018 meeting has been cancelled. Adele C. Lewis Board Secretary 1 T - 02/08/18, The Leader Fee: $19.89

PUBLIC NOTICE TOWNSHIP OF SCOTCH PLAINS ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT RESOLUTION WHEREAS, the Zoning Board of Adjustment of the Township of Scotch Plains will require the services of an Engineer during the year 2018; and WHEREAS, the Local Public Contracts Law, N.J.S.A. (40 A-11-1et seq.), requires that the Resolution authorizing the award of a contract for professional services without competitive bids be publicly advertised; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Zoning Board of Adjustment of the Township of Scotch Plains, New Jersey, that Ferriero Engineering, Inc., 180 Main Street, Chester, New Jersey, be appointed Consulting Engineer to the Zoning Board of Adjustment for the period effective from January 11, 2018 to December 31, 2018. This contract is awarded without competitive bidding as a “professional service” under the provisions of said Local Public Contracts Law because the services are of such a qualitative nature as will not permit the receipt of competitive bids due to the subjective difference in the work product of such persons and the fact that the ethical requirements of such professionals will not permit such bidding. Shannon Rapant Land Use Secretary 1 T - 2/8/18, The Times Fee: $30.69

PUBLIC NOTICE

NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF PROCUREMENT, BUREAU OF CONSTRUCTION SERVICES 1035 PARKWAY AVENUE, PO BOX 600 TRENTON, NEW JERSEY 08625 Notice is hereby given that bid proposals will be received from Bidders classified under N.J.S.A. 27:7-35.2 via the Internet until 10:00:59 A.M. on 2/27/18, downloaded, and publicly opened and read, in the CONFERENCE ROOM-A, 1st Floor F & A Building, New Jersey Department of Transportation, 1035 Parkway Avenue, Trenton, New Jersey 08625; for: Maintenance Resurfacing Contract, North - 2018, Various Locations in the Counties of Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Morris, Passaic, Union, Sussex and Warren-Including and North of Route 57, 100% State, DP No: 18431 Bidders are required to comply with the requirements of N.J.S.A. 10:5-31 (P.L 1975, c. 127); N.J.A.C. 17:27. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.19, contractors must provide a Certification and Disclosure of Political Contribution Form prior to contract award. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 52:32-44, contractor must submit the Department of Treasury, Division of Revenue Business Registration of the contractor and any named subcontractors prior to contract award or authorization. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 34:11-56.51, contractors must be registered with the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, Division of Wage and Hour Compliance at the time of bid. Plans, specifications, and bidding information for the proposed work are available at Bid Express website www.bidx.com. You must subscribe to use this service. To subscribe, follow the instructions on the web site. Fees apply to downloading documents and plans and bidding access. The fee schedule is available on the web site. All fees are directly payable to Bid Express. Plans, specifications, and bidding information may be inspected (BUT NOT OBTAINED) by contracting organizations at our Design Field Offices at the following locations: 200 Stierli Court One Executive Campus Rt 70 West Mt. Arlington, New Jersey 07856 Cherry Hill, New Jersey 08002 973-601-6690 856-486-6623 3 T - 2/8/18, 2/15/18 and 2/22/18, The Leader Fee: $168.30

Single Jewish Friends Schedule Luncheon AREA — The Circle of Single Jewish Friends 50-plus will hold a Meet and Eat Luncheon on Sunday, February 18, at noon. It will take place at Bahama Breeze Island Grille, located at 520 Woodbridge Center Drive, Woodbridge. The cost is the price of a meal from the menu and tip, plus $3. Interested persons are asked to RSVP to Roberta at (908) 668-8450 or [email protected] as soon as possible.

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

TOWN OF WESTFIELD BOARD OF EDUCATION

qualification/ Classification Certificate may be rejected as being non-responsive to bid requirements. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:18A-25, each proposal shall be accompanied by a Proposition of Surety from a Surety Company stating it will provide each bidder with separate Performance and Payment Bonds, each in the amount of 100% of the contract sum. Also, Surety agrees to furnish Bidder with a Maintenance Bond in required form. The Proposition of Surety shall be executed by an approved surety company authorized to do business in the State of New Jersey and in accordance with N.J.S.A. 2A:44-143 and 2A:44-144 and with the three highest rating categories of rating companies nationally recognized and listed as per Appendix A (go to www.nj.gov/dobi/surety.htm). Bidding shall be in conformance with the applicable requirements of N.J.S.A. 18A:18A-1 et seq. “Public School Contracts Law.” All bidders shall comply with The New Jersey Prevailing Wage Act N.J.S.A. 34:1156.25 et seq. (P.L. 1963, c.150). All bidders are required to comply with all requirements of Affirmative Action Regulations, N.J.S.A. 10:5-31 et seq. (P.L. 1975, c.127) N.J.A.C. 17:27 and P.L. 1975, C. 127, N.J.A.C. 17:27 N.J.S.A. 10:5-31 et seq. Laws Against Discrimination. An Initial Project Workforce Report will be required from the successful bidder (Form AA-201). All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation or sex. All Contractors and Subcontractors must comply with the business registration and use tax requirements of N.J.S.A. 52:3244, amended by P.L. 2004, c.57. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 52:32-44, all Contractors who bid on the School Facilities Project shall provide a copy of their Business Registration Certification, issued by the Department of Treasury, at the time of submission of their Bid Proposals to the School District. Failure to include this form with the Proposal or Bid will result in rejection of the Bid. The Contractor must (a) obtain proof of valid business registration from a Subcontractor before entering into a contract with the Subcontractor and shall forward said business registrations to the School District; (b) provide written notice to all Subcontractors that they are required to submit a copy of their Business Registration Certificate to the Contractor; and (c) maintain and submit to the School District a list of the names of any Subcontractors and their current addresses, updated as necessary during the course of the contract performance, and to be complete and accurate before a request for final payment is made. No bid may be withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days after the date set for the opening thereof. The right is reserved to reject any or all bids or to waive informality in the bidding if it is in the interest of the School District to do so. BY ORDER OF THE WESTFIELD BOARD OF EDUCATION, UNION COUNTY, NEW JERSEY. Dana Sullivan, Business Administrator Board Secretary 1 T - 2/8/18, The Leader Fee: $132.60

NOTICE TO BIDDERS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Westfield Public Schools will receive bids for Alterations and Renovations at Kehler Stadium, 550 Dorian Road, Westfield, New Jersey 07090, together with all work incidental thereto, in accordance with the requirements of the drawings and specifications prepared by Fraytak Veisz Hopkins Duthie, P.C. (FVHD) Architects-Planners, FVHD Project No. 4981, www.fvhdpc.com. Bids will be received for: Single Overall Contract C008 or C009 with C030, C032, C047, C060 and C061 Sealed bids are due by March 6, 2018, 2:30 PM to the Westfield Board of Education, attention of Ms. Dana Sullivan, Business Administrator, Room 101, 302 Elm St., Westfield, NJ 07090, and will be publicly opened and read immediately thereafter. Prebid Meeting will be held on February 15, 2018, 1:00 PM, at Kehler Stadium, 800 Rahway Avenue, Westfield, New Jersey 07090. Attendance at the pre-bid meeting is recommended. Bid Documents for the proposed Work are on file at the office of the Architect, FVHD, 1515 Lower Ferry Road, Trenton, New Jersey 08618, and may be inspected by prospective bidders during regular business hours. Any bidder should contact the Architect’s office at (609) 883-7101 to confirm availability of documents. Bid Documents will be available from the Architect upon deposit of $250 (Two Hundred Fifty Dollars) for each paper set or disk for a non-refundable fee of $100.00, checks payable to Fraytak Veisz Hopkins Duthie. If bidder requests documents to be shipped, they must provide their direct shipping account number to the Architect and for paper sets, an additional separate nonrefundable handling fee of $25 per set payable in advance. Deposits will be refunded if the bid documents are returned in whole in good condition, bound in proper order, unmarked and returned within ten (10) days after the opening of bids, by a Bidder submitting a bona fide bid. All questions must be sent only via mail or facsimile at (609) 883-2694 with the job number referenced. Bid Proposal shall be submitted in duplicate (one original and one copy) in a sealed envelope: (1) addressed to the owner, (2) bearing the name and address of the bidder written on the face of the envelope, and (3) clearly marked “BID” with the contract title and/or bid number on the outside of the envelope and must be accompanied by a Certified Check, Cashier’s Check or Bid Bond drawn to the order of the Owner for not less than ten percent (10%) of the amount of the bid, but in no case in excess of $20,000.00; and must be delivered to the above place on or before the hour named. The Board of Education and the Architect assume no responsibility for bids mailed or misdirected in delivery. If the bid exceeds $20,000.00 bidder must be pre-qualified by the New Jersey Division of Property Management and Construction (DPMC), prior to the date that bids are received. Any bid submitted under the terms of New Jersey statutes not including a copy of a valid and active Pre-

Iconic residence on one of Westfield’s most prestigious streets. Stunningly appointed throughout offering three levels of living space. Fantastic lower level with rec room with wet bar, media room, gym and wine cellar. Nestled on slightly over an acre of exquisite, private grounds featuring saltwater pool & hot tub. This one of a kind residence is not to be missed!

24 Tanglewood Lane, Mountainside Offered at $755,000 Charming four bedroom, three bath Colonial with lovely front porch has been beautifully renovated and expanded. The grounds are idyllic and include a stone patio and deck. Conveniently located at the end of a cul-de-sac, just minutes from downtown Mountainside, Echo Lake Park, and NYC transportation, this house is sure to delight.

Thursday, February 8, 2018 The Westfield Leader and The WESTFIELD Saturday, January 27, a resident of Highland Avenue responded to police headquarters to report numerous incidents of fraud in which different credit card accounts were used withMonday, January 29, Eric A. out proper authorization. There was for two separate credit cards and made unauthorized charges totaling more Nelson, 35, of Plainfield was arrested no further information. on outstanding warrants out of the Saturday, January 27, Bruno than $3,000. Monday, January 29, Paul Dyer, Union County Sheriff’s Department Buczyk, 33, of Westfield was arrested on the 1200 block of West South 32, of Westfield was arrested on and Bridgewater during a police inAvenue on two outstanding Munici- two outstanding confirmed Munici- vestigation regarding a suspicious pal Court traffic warrants, including pal Court warrants from Elmwood person. He was transported to police one from Newark, with $750 bail, Park, with a total bail amount of headquarters and processed. Tuesday, January 30, Daven and the other from Secaucus, with $1,000, pursuant to a motor vehicle $500 bail. He was transported to po- stop at Dudley Court and Bradford Pereira, 20, of Roselle Park was arlice headquarters, processed and re- Avenue. They included a criminal rested and charged with possession warrant, with $750 bail, and a traffic of marijuana during a motor vehicle leased on his own recognizance. Saturday, January 27, Woodlaire warrant, with $250 bail. Dyer was stop. Pereira was transported to poCazeau, 21, of Linden was arrested processed and released on his own lice headquarters and processed. Tuesday, January 30, Algernon C. and charged with possession of less recognizance per the Elmwood Park than 50 grams of suspected mari- Police Department pending a new Davis, 58, of Roselle was arrested on an outstanding warrant out of the juana pursuant to a motor vehicle court date. Monday, January 29, Quran Kelly- Monmouth County Sheriff’s Departstop in the area of Central and South Avenues. Cazeau was trans- Battle, 23, of Orange was arrested ment during a motor vehicle stop. He ported to police headquarters, pro- and charged with possession of less was transported to police headquarcessed and released with a com- than 50 grams of suspected mari- ters and processed. Tuesday, January 30, Tandra Jones, juana pursuant to a motor vehicle plaint-summons. Sunday, January 28, Ivelisse stop in the area of Cacciola and Stirling 46, of New Brunswick was arrested Miranda-Holmes, 50, of Monmouth Places. Kelly-Battle was processed and charged with disorderly conduct during an investigation after officers Junction was arrested at police head- and released with a summons. Tuesday, January 30, Kai J. Pradia, were dispatched to Terrill Road on a quarters on a Westfield Municipal Court traffic warrant, with $75 bail. 23, of Prospect Park was arrested on report of an intoxicated female. Tuesday, January 30, Aleisha J. Miranda-Holmes, who was trans- several outstanding confirmed warrants, ferred to Westfield authorities by New with $2,250 total bail, pursuant to a Dudley, 28, of Newark was arrested Jersey State Police, was processed motor vehicle stop in the area of West on an outstanding warrant out of NewSouth Avenue and Hort Street. They ark during a motor vehicle stop. and posted bail in full. Sunday, January 28, a business on included a Hazlet traffic warrant, with Dudley was transported to police the 100 block of Quimby Street re- $1,000 bail; a Medford Township traf- headquarters and processed. Saturday, February 3, Joseph M. ported being the victim of a shoplift- fic warrant, with $600 bail; a Mount ing that day at 9:08 p.m. The suspect Laurel traffic warrant, with $500 bail, Alianiello, 31, of Middletown was stole approximately $155.97 worth and an Elizabeth criminal warrant, with arrested on an outstanding warrant $150 bail. Pradia was transported to out of Scotch Plains. of alcohol. Sunday, February 4, Taileen Monday, January 29, Lance police headquarters, processed and Louison, 38, of Scotch Plains was turned over to the Hazlet Police De- Alvarez, 30, of East Stroudsburg, Pa., was arrested and charged with posarrested on an outstanding criminal partment in lieu of bail. Thursday, February 1, Mariajose session of prescription legend drugs warrant from West Orange Municipal Court, with $250 bail, pursuant to Gonzalez, 28, of Charlotte, N.C., was during a motor vehicle stop. Alvarez a motor vehicle stop at East North arrested on an active traffic warrant was transported to police headquarAvenue and Elmer Street. Louison from North Bergen Municipal Court, ters and processed. FANWOOD was transported to police headquar- with $89 bail, subsequent to a motor Monday, January 29, Smithy ters, processed and released after vehicle stop at Springfield Avenue and Cardinal Drive. Gonzalez posted Antoine, 27, of Roselle was arrested posting bail. and charged with possession of mariMonday, January 29, a resident of bail and was released. juana after a motor vehicle stop at East SCOTCH PLAINS Myrtle Avenue reported an incident of identity theft. The victim stated that one or more unknown suspects accessed an account belonging to him and purchased items without his authorization. Monday, January 29, a resident of Archibold Place reported incidents of identity theft. According to the victim, one or more unknown suspects accessed two separate accounts

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Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES 3rd Street and Wiley Avenue for a motor vehicle violation. While speaking with the driver police could smell an odor of marijuana coming from inside the vehicle. Antoine was asked to exit the vehicle for a search. The officers located the suspected marijuana and the driver was arrested, processed, charged with possession and released pending a court appearance. Monday, January 29, Andre Jones, 26, of Plainfield was arrested on an outstanding warrant out of Fanwood after a motor vehicle stop at Columbia Avenue and Terrill Road for a motor vehicle violation. Jones was processed and released by the Fanwood Municipal Court. Monday, January 29, Floyd Grant, 49, of Rahway was arrested on an active warrant out of North Brunswick after a motor vehicle stop at Terrill Road and East 2nd Street for a motor vehicle violation. Grant was processed, posted bail and released. Monday, January 29, a business owner on the 300 block of South Avenue reported a suspect pulled into his business and received a full tank of gasoline. The suspect handed the attendant a counterfeit bill and drove off. The incident is under investigation. Monday, January 29, Awais Malik, 21, of Staten Island, N.Y., was arrested and charged with hindering apprehension due to the fact the driver had a suspended license and lied about his identity following a motor vehicle stop at North and Martine Avenues for a motor vehicle violation. Malik was processed, charged with hindering and released with a court appearance. Tuesday, January 30, a victim reported that he was assaulted by a group of people on the 100 block of Willoughby Road. The victim received minor injuries. The incident currently is being investigated. Saturday, February 3, Andy Aguilar, 24, of Plainfield was arrested on an active warrant out of Plainfield after a motor vehicle stop at Terrill Road and Stewart Place for a motor vehicle violation. Aguilar was processed, posted bail and released.

PUBLIC NOTICE NJ TRANSIT PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE PROPOSED DISCONTINUANCE OF BUS ROUTE NO. 95 (SCOTCH PLAINS-NEWARK) The New Jersey Transit Corporation (NJ TRANSIT) operates Bus Route No. 95 between Scotch Plains and Newark via points in Westfield, Mountainside, Springfield, and Union. Service operates on weekdays only, during AM and PM peak hour periods, operating only inbound towards Newark in the AM and only outbound towards Scotch Plains in the PM. NJ TRANSIT proposes to discontinue all service on Bus Route No. 95 due to low ridership and the availability of ample alternative public transportation to facilitate these trips. Approximately 179 one-way customers per weekday use this service, which can be represented as 11 passengers per trip. All affected customers would continue to have alternative bus service available to them should the No. 95 bus service be discontinued. NJ TRANSIT will conduct public hearings to receive public comments on the proposed discontinuance of Bus Route No. 95. Public hearings will be held as authorized by N.J.S.A. 27:25-8(d). Written comments for the record may be sent to the Public Hearing Office-Bus Route No. 95 Comments, NJ TRANSIT, One Penn Plaza East, Newark, New Jersey 07105 or on NJ TRANSIT’s website, www.njtransit.com/ publichearings. All comments must be received no later than MIDNIGHT, FEBRUARY 28, 2018. Individuals requesting sign language interpreters should contact the Public Hearing Office at 973-491-7453 or TTY (800) 772-2287 by FEBRUARY 12, 2018. Individuals requesting language support should contact Customer Service at 973275-5555 by FEBRUARY 12, 2018. Please be advised and assured that NO FINAL DECISION HAS BEEN MADE REGARDING THE PROPOSED BUS ROUTE DISCONTINUANCE. The public’s views on this proposal as expressed at the hearings and through the written comment process will be presented to the NJ TRANSIT Board of Directors prior to a final decision in this matter. The public hearings will be held: Date: Thursday, February 22, 2018 Time: 6:00 p.m. Location: NJ TRANSIT Headquarters Board Room One Penn Plaza East Newark, New Jersey 07105 Date: Tuesday, February 27, 2018 Time: 6:00 p.m. Location: Scotch Plains Municipal Building Courtroom/Council Chambers,First Floor 430 Park Avenue ScotchPlains,NewJersey07076 Para obtener una copia traducida de este aviso, comuníquese con Servicio al Cliente: 973-275-5555. Para obter uma tradução deste aviso, entre em contato com o Atendimento ao Cliente, no telefone (+1) 973-275-5555. NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY: NJ TRANSIT operates its programs and services without regard to race, color, or national origin, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended. Any person who believes she or he has been subjected to discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin, or wishing to obtain additional information regarding NJ TRANSIT’s Title VI obligations, may contact NJ TRANSIT Customer Service at 973-275-5555. A complaint or inquiry may also be filed by writing to NJ TRANSIT Customer Service-Title VI, One Penn Plaza East, Newark, NJ 07105. A complaint must be filed within 180 days of the alleged discrimination.

1 T - 02/08/18 & 02/15/18, The Times

Fee: $168.30

GREETINGS TO OUR TROOPS...Students in Karen Lust’s classes at Roosevelt Intermediate School in Westfield recently wrote letters for the troops serving overseas. Roosevelt is among the many schools and organizations throughout Westfield, Cranford, Kenilworth, Scotch Plains-Fanwood and Mendham that participated in making more than 3,000 handmade cards, ornaments and decorations that were mailed by several organizations, including the American Legion in Westfield, and local mom Colby Sheppard, who sends out packages of cards sponsored by Surgent’s Elite Gym in Westfield. Over the past nine years, more than 23,000 cards have been sent out to United States troops in all branches of the military on almost every continent. PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

TOWN OF WESTFIELD BOARD OF EDUCATION

requirements. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:18A-25, each proposal shall be accompanied by a Proposition of Surety from a Surety Company stating it will provide each bidder with separate Performance and Payment Bonds, each in the amount of 100% of the contract sum. Also, Surety agrees to furnish Bidder with a Maintenance Bond in required form. The Proposition of Surety shall be executed by an approved surety company authorized to do business in the State of New Jersey and in accordance with N.J.S.A. 2A:44-143 and 2A:44-144 and with the three highest rating categories of rating companies nationally recognized and listed as per Appendix A (go to www.nj.gov/dobi/surety.htm). Bidding shall be in conformance with the applicable requirements of N.J.S.A. 18A:18A-1 et seq. “Public School Contracts Law.” All bidders shall comply with The New Jersey Prevailing Wage Act N.J.S.A. 34:1156.25 et seq. (P.L. 1963, c.150). All bidders are required to comply with all requirements of Affirmative Action Regulations, N.J.S.A. 10:5-31 et seq. (P.L. 1975, c.127) N.J.A.C. 17:27 and P.L. 1975, C. 127, N.J.A.C. 17:27 N.J.S.A. 10:5-31 et seq. Laws Against Discrimination. An Initial Project Workforce Report will be required from the successful bidder (Form AA-201). All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation or sex. All Contractors and Subcontractors must comply with the business registration and use tax requirements of N.J.S.A. 52:3244, amended by P.L. 2004, c.57. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 52:32-44, all Contractors who bid on the School Facilities Project shall provide a copy of their Business Registration Certification, issued by the Department of Treasury, at the time of submission of their Bid Proposals to the School District. Failure to include this form with the Proposal or Bid will result in rejection of the Bid. The Contractor must (a) obtain proof of valid business registration from a Subcontractor before entering into a contract with the Subcontractor and shall forward said business registrations to the School District; (b) provide written notice to all Subcontractors that they are required to submit a copy of their Business Registration Certificate to the Contractor; and (c) maintain and submit to the School District a list of the names of any Subcontractors and their current addresses, updated as necessary during the course of the contract performance, and to be complete and accurate before a request for final payment is made. No bid may be withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days after the date set for the opening thereof. The right is reserved to reject any or all bids or to waive informality in the bidding if it is in the interest of the School District to do so. BY ORDER OF THE WESTFIELD BOARD OF EDUCATION, UNION COUNTY, NEW JERSEY. Dana Sullivan, Business Administrator Board Secretary 1 T - 2/8/18, The Leader Fee: $129.03

NOTICE TO BIDDERS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Westfield Public Schools will receive bids for Science Room Renovations at Westfield High School, 550 Dorian Road, Westfield, New Jersey 07090, together with all work incidental thereto, in accordance with the requirements of the drawings and specifications prepared by Fraytak Veisz Hopkins Duthie, P.C. (FVHD) Architects-Planners, www.fvhdpc.com, FVHD Project No. 4982K. Bids will be received for: Single Overall Contract (C008 or C009 with C030, C032, C047) Sealed bids are due by March 6, 2018, 2:00 PM to the Westfield Board of Education, attention of Ms. Dana Sullivan, Business Administrator, Room 101, 302 Elm St., Westfield, NJ 07090, and will be publicly opened and read immediately thereafter. Bid Documents for the proposed Work are on file at the office of the Architect, FVHD, 1515 Lower Ferry Road, Trenton, New Jersey 08618, and may be inspected by prospective bidders during regular business hours. Any bidder should contact the Architect’s office at (609) 883-7101 to confirm availability of documents. Bid Documents will be available from the Architect upon deposit of $250 (Two Hundred Fifty Dollars) for each paper set or disk for a non-refundable fee of $100.00, checks payable to Fraytak Veisz Hopkins Duthie. If bidder requests documents to be shipped, they must provide their direct shipping account number to the Architect and for paper sets, an additional separate nonrefundable handling fee of $25 per set payable in advance. Deposits will be refunded if the bid documents are returned in whole in good condition, bound in proper order, unmarked and returned within ten (10) days after the opening of bids, by a Bidder submitting a bona fide bid. All questions must be sent only via mail or facsimile at (609) 883-2694 with the job number referenced. Bid Proposal shall be submitted in duplicate (one original and one copy) in a sealed envelope: (1) addressed to the owner, (2) bearing the name and address of the bidder written on the face of the envelope, and (3) clearly marked “BID” with the contract title and/or bid number on the outside of the envelope and must be accompanied by a Certified Check, Cashier’s Check or Bid Bond drawn to the order of the Owner for not less than ten percent (10%) of the amount of the bid, but in no case in excess of $20,000.00; and must be delivered to the above place on or before the hour named. The Board of Education and the Architect assume no responsibility for bids mailed or misdirected in delivery. If the bid exceeds $20,000.00 bidder must be pre-qualified by the New Jersey Division of Property Management and Construction (DPMC), prior to the date that bids are received. Any bid submitted under the terms of New Jersey statutes not including a copy of a valid and active Prequalification/ Classification Certificate may be rejected as being non-responsive to bid

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SPREADING PEACE...The Christopher Academy Peace Quilt was delivered to Imagine, a local community center for counseling and coping with loss. Ursula Thrush Peace Seed recipient Barbara McElheny created a Peace Quilt guiding her class through several practical life and cultural concept experiences. The quilt will travel to similar facilities and Montessori schools, spreading peace from the young hands of her students to other young children and their families.

You know that lyric from “Home on the Range,” where the cowpoke asserts that “seldom is heard a discouraging word?” Well, if you go by the realistic take on the Old West proffered in director/writer Scott Cooper’s Hostiles, the reason no one says anything discouraging is that they’re either dead or fighting like crazy to keep from being dead. While poet Joel Barlow hoped his Vision of Columbus (1787) would be our version of The Iliad, he was premature. There would be 100 more years of conquering the natives before America’s character would be formed. This is a very studied work, contemplative, moody, often slow and then jarringly punctuated with a brutally truthful, enigmatic and almost fatalistic violence that contradicts the glorifying horse operas that came before it, and in the bargain explaining the genre’s dwindling popularity. Sure, the costumes are period piece romantic, the stunning vistas of a still pristine West utterly breathtaking. But with no sugarcoat of pageantry added to soften what is purely a chronicle of one people confiscating real estate from another, Mr. Cooper expresses the sad reality of history. Plainly, annexing, occupying and outright seizing of sovereign territories has been going on since Goog the caveman figured Glug’s Wooly Mammoth-rich land would serve him better. But where Mr. Cooper most succeeds with his film, set amidst the last drips and drabs of American Indian resistance in 1892, is in its personalization of the seemingly unstoppable whirlwind. It’s in the wary and weary eyes of his principals…folks trying to survive the elements and the lesser angels of human nature, conflicted between what they think is right and the prevailing doctrine. Thus it is with no small amount of animosity that Christian Bale’s Captain Joseph Blocker accedes, under threat of forfeiting his pension, to escort previously imprisoned and now dying Cheyenne Chief Yellow Hawk

Johnson Enrolls at the University of Findlay FINDLAY, Oh. – Christopher Johnson, of Westfield, has enrolled at the University of Findlay for spring 2018. New students began their studies at UF on January 8. Mr. Johnson is pursuing a doctor of physical therapy degree. PUBLIC NOTICE

NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF PROCUREMENT, BUREAU OF CONSTRUCTION SERVICES 1035 PARKWAY AVENUE, PO BOX 600 TRENTON, NEW JERSEY 08625 Notice is hereby given that bid proposals will be received from Bidders classified under N.J.S.A. 27:7-35.2 via the Internet until 10:00:59 A.M. on 2/27/18, downloaded, and publicly opened and read, in the CONFERENCE ROOM-A, 1st Floor F & A Building, New Jersey Department of Transportation, 1035 Parkway Avenue, Trenton, New Jersey 08625; for: Maintenance Beam Guide Rail and Attenuator Repair Contract, North - 2018, Various Locations in the Counties of Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Morris, Passaic, Sussex, Union and Warren-Including and North of Route 57; 100% State; DP No: 18434 Bidders are required to comply with the requirements of N.J.S.A. 10:5-31 (P.L 1975, c. 127); N.J.A.C. 17:27. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 19:44A-20.19, contractors must provide a Certification and Disclosure of Political Contribution Form prior to contract award. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 52:32-44, contractor must submit the Department of Treasury, Division of Revenue Business Registration of the contractor and any named subcontractors prior to contract award or authorization. Pursuant to N.J.S.A. 34:11-56.51, contractors must be registered with the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, Division of Wage and Hour Compliance at the time of bid. Plans, specifications, and bidding information for the proposed work are available at Bid Express website www.bidx.com. You must subscribe to use this service. To subscribe, follow the instructions on the web site. Fees apply to downloading documents and plans and bidding access. The fee schedule is available on the web site. All fees are directly payable to Bid Express. Plans, specifications, and bidding information may be inspected (BUT NOT OBTAINED) by contracting organizations at our Design Field Offices at the following locations: 200 Stierli Court One Executive Campus Rt 70 West Mt. Arlington, New Jersey 07856 Cherry Hill, New Jersey 08002 973-601-6690 856-486-6623 3 T - 2/8/18, 2/15/18 and 2/22/18, The Leader Fee: $168.30

(Wes Studi) to his ancestral home in Montana. As is often the case in journeys meant to distill the significance of the human condition, we find Blocker at a watershed. Though he has spent the bulk of his career in the U.S. Army fighting and killing the indigenous population, as retirement nears he has begun to ask himself the big questions. Of course there’s a lady who helps spur the introspection. In clichéd dramatic form that we readily accept thanks to the splendid complement she represents, pretty Rosamund Pike as the tragically widowed Rosalie Quaid is a welcome addition to the group of Indians and soldiers who set out from New Mexico. Expect all the usual dangers along the trail, except that, unlike the requisite perils that a lifetime of viewing Westerns has familiarized us with, each event seems much more stark, shocking, as if exorcised from the context of its fictional-friendly usualness. As the ragtag group diminishes in number, it affectingly dawns that these are real people dying, and for no truly noble purpose. But while there isn’t too much time to think about it, it is in the aforementioned pauses where Mr. Cooper’s characters evince a searing naturalism, replete with volumes of religious self-examination verbalized in snippets of hopeful catharses. It is touching, frightening and will disappoint if not outright anger the bloodand-guts enthusiast who just wants to see a lot of murdering and none of that “goody-goody philosophical stuff.” All the same, Hostiles doesn’t work to disparage the spaghetti westerns, psychological horse operas and the 1940s film noir scripts turned into shoot-‘em-ups that served as our entertainment whenever we had a hankering for saddling up and hitting the Bijou. Rather, it tacitly encourages accepting them as parts of a historical process, the mixing of jaundiced chronicle and art necessary to venerating a nation state’s origination and vowed mission. It’d hardly enthuse pioneers to believe our purpose was anything less than righteous and worthy of example. The serendipity consequence is that a funny thing happened on the way to creating our heritage. We came to buy it hook, line and sinker, so much so that even a 21st Century accountant beset with a moral dilemma might ponder, at least for a second, how a venerable marshal like Gary Cooper’s Will Kane in High Noon (1952) might resolve matters. It goes ‘round and ‘round. For while that movie was a surreptitious comment on McCarthyism, the enmity between whites and Native Americans in Hostiles surely references America’s immigration bafflements. This can be conflicting. For inbetween the splash-in-the-face lessons of this phenomenally scenic adventure, there I was in a Saturday matinee of the mind with Dave Schenker, as trusty a sidekick a cowboy could want. Hustling home from Newark’s Roosevelt Theater in the approaching dusk, giving our toy sixshooters their rat-tat-tat voice while trying to keep from tumbling into the sticker bushes, we reveled in our Indian fighting. It would be years before we realized via artistic truth serums like “Hostiles” that our real fight would be against intolerance. *** Hostiles, rated R, is an Entertainment Studios Motion Pictures release directed by Scott Cooper and stars Rosamund Pike, Christian Bale and Wes Studi. Running time: 134 minutes.

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The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES

Thursday, February 8, 2018

Page 17

SP-FHS Rep. Theatre Presents Once Upon a Mattress

TOP SCORES...Eight Westfield High School students achieved the highest score possible on the December SAT and ACT standardized tests according to recent reports received by the school, bringing the total of perfect scores reported so far this school year to 42. After receiving the news, Westfield High School Principal, Derrick Nelson (far right), congratulated the students on January 19 citing their outstanding achievement on the tests which are widely used for college admission criteria. “It speaks volumes about your abilities and your commitment to your education,” stated Mr. Nelson. The recent top ACT scorers include (top row, from left to right) Lauren Greenspan – Reading, Jared Greenspan – Math, Jeremy Cha – English, Alexander McGrail – Reading, and Ethan Useloff – Math. Perfect SAT scores were achieved by (first row): Austin Chen – Math, Edward Xing – Math and Tomas Taaffe – Literature.

Muhlenberg College Tells Dean's List for Fall 2017 ALLENTOWN, Penn. – Muhlenberg College students with a term GPA of 3.50 or higher were recognized for their academic achievement and named to Dean's List for Fall 2017. Local students receiving this recognition include: Michael Nigro of Cranford, Kevin Irving of

Cameron James Kutzer of Cranford, Kayla Rodrigues of Westfield, Amanda Paige Soldati of Westfield, Catherine Ann Acito of Scotch Plains, Andrea May McNeely of Scotch Plains, and Matthew William Vignola of Fanwood. Students who earn dean's list honors must carry at least 12 graded credit hours and earn a GPA of between 3.5 and 3.899.

Roger Williams University Tells Fall 2017 Dean's List BRISTOL, R.I. – Select students have been named to the Spring 2017 Dean's List at Roger Williams University in Bristol, R.I. Full-time students who complete 12 or more credits per semester and earn a GPA of 3.4 or higher are placed on the Dean's

SCOTCH PLAINS-FANWOOD – The Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School (SP-FHS) Repertory Theatre is proud to present this year's production of Broadway's hit musical Once Upon a Mattress. Performances will be held on Friday, March 9, Saturday, March 10, Thursday, March 15, Friday, March 16 and Saturday, March 17 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, March 11 at 2 p.m. All shows take place at Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School, 667 Westfield Road, Scotch Plains. This comedic musical is an adaptation of the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale The Princess and the Pea. The story takes place long ago and in a faraway kingdom where King Sextimus is unable to speak due a curse that has been placed on him and therefore his mean wife, Queen Aggravain, has taken over as the ruler of the kingdom. Queen Aggravain has decreed that her son, Prince Dauntless, who is seeking a bride, can only marry a princess of true blood (one who is sensitive enough to feel a pea that is underneath a pile of mattresses when she sleeps). Further, the Queen has declared that until he is married, no one else in the kingdom is permitted to wed. This is quite a problem for Lady Larken and Sir Harry, as Lady Larken is pregnant with Sir Harry’s baby. This conundrum drives Sir Harry's determination to find a match for Prince Dauntless so that he can marry. With the dramatic arrival of the

Dean's List Students Named for UA Fall 2017 Term TUSCALOOSA, Alab. – A total of 12,594 students enrolled during the 2017 fall semester at The University of Alabama were named to the Dean's List with an academic record of 3.5 or above or the President's List with an academic record of 4.0 (all A's). The UA Dean's and President's lists recognize full-time undergraduate students. The lists do not apply to graduate students or under-

graduate students who take less than a full course load. Those students include: Daniel Hopkins of Scotch Plains, Dean's List; Elizabeth Lestrange of Scotch Plains, Dean's List; Kristen Hughes of Westfield, Dean's List; Sara Hughes of Westfield, President's List; Madison Mueller of Westfield, Dean's List; and Ashley Oliveira of Mountainside, President's List.

Dean's List Announced at Alvernia University READING, Penn. – The following students have been named to Alvernia University's Dean's List for the fall 2017 semester. To be eligible for the Dean's List, students must carry a semester GPA of 3.5 or better and take a minimum of 12 credits. Sara Hayes of Scotch Plains studied Criminal Justice as a Senior in the fall and is a graduate of Scotch PlainsFanwood High School Jessica Howard of Scotch Plains studied Occupational Therapy as a

Senior in the fall and is a graduate of Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School Daria Speranza of Scotch Plains studied Occupational Therapy as a Freshman in the fall and is a graduate of Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School

Baldowski Makes Dean's List at Del. Val. TOP TEACHERS...Brookside Place Elementary School in Cranford is pleased to announce that Jill Pierce, right, has been selected as the Classroom Teacher of the Year and Maureen Foye, left, has been selected as the Educational Services Professional of the Year from nominations made by the school community as part of the New Jersey Department of Education 2017-18 Governor’s Educator of the Year Program.

REGION CHORUS...On January 28,three students from Mount Saint Mary Academy in Watchung had the honor of performing as selected members of the Central Jersey Region Chorus at Monroe High School. Those students are: Michelle Colman, center, a junior from Scotch Plains; Alexandra Gomes, right, a senior from South Plainfield; and Abigail Varker, a senior from Colonia.

Dreamcatcher Junior Begins Summer Prog. Enrollment SUMMIT – Dreamcatcher Repertory Theatre, professional Theatre in Residence at the Oakes Center in Summit, will hold its Dreamcatcher Junior summer theatre program for students entering grades five through 12 from July 9 through July 27. Dreamcatcher’s program is a threeweek theatre experience which combines training, in which students build skills and study with theatre professionals in a variety of subjects, with the opportunity for students to create and perform their own play. The program will be held Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (with a special performance on July 27 at 7 p.m.) at Dreamcatcher’s home at the Oakes Center, 120 Morris Avenue in Summit. The cost of the Summer Theatre Program: Dreamcatcher Junior is $825 for all three weeks, with limited

Leitner Earns Dean's List at Univ. at Albany ALBANY, N.Y. – The University at Albany congratulates Andrea Leitner from Scotch Plains on being named to the Fall 2017 Dean's List. Students named to the Dean's List earned at least a 3.5 GPA.

Virgil of Fanwood Earns University of Hartford Dean's List WEST HARTFORD, Conn. – The University of Hartford is pleased to announce Malcolm Virgil of Fanwood has been named to its Dean's List for Fall 2017.

Local Students Attain Fall Dean’s List at UConn HARTFORD, Conn. – At the end of each semester the Dean of each school and college at UConn names to the Dean’s List those students who (1) were registered for at least 12 credits calculable for grade points, (2) received no grade below “C”, including the actual letter grade awarded in any course under the Pass/Fail option, (3) earned at least 3.0 times as many grade points as the number of calculable credits recorded by the Registrar, and (4) were in at least the upper quartile of their school or college.

WEST HAVEN, Conn. – Alexander Mezzomo, of Westfield, a student in the Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice and Forensic Sciences of the University of New Haven has been named to the Dean's List for the fall, 2017. Mr. Mezzomo is working on a Bachelor of Science in Paramedicine.

DOYLESTOWN, Penn. – Lauren Baldowski, a resident of Cranford, was honored for academic achievement by being named to the Dean's List at Delaware Valley University for the Fall 2017 semester.

unrefined Princess Winnifred, who hopes for the Prince Dauntless’ hand, there is much hilarity; the Queen schemes to make sure that Winnifred isn’t her son’s soulmate, and Sir Harry, the King and the Jester work together to help Dauntless and Winnifred find their happily ever after. The cast features a total of 54 students, 14 of whom are seniors, and is under the direction of Courtney Nemec, Director, SPFHS Repertory Theatre, a fifth grade teacher at Park Middle School and Jan Allen, SPFHS Choral Director, SPFHS Repertory Theatre Music Director and Producer. The show has a large stage crew and importantly, features a pit band as well. According to Ms. Allen, "With over 100 students involved in the show between the cast, crew, pit, costuming and stage management, it’s really exciting to see this production come together. We’ve got a very talented group bringing Once Upon a Mattress to life and we are really looking forward to performing this for the community in March.” Tickets may be purchased at MattressSPFHS.brownpapertickets.com and are $13 for students/seniors and $15 for adults. All tickets will be $10 for the Thursday, March 15 performance only. Seniors with “Gold Cards” may contact Kathleen Sheehy at [email protected] to arrange for their ticket.

need-based scholarships available. Discounts are provided for those who register before April 15. Admission is on a first come, first served basis until the program is filled or until the deadline of Friday, June 1, and applications for Dreamcatcher Junior and more information on the program may be obtained by calling Dreamcatcher’s business office at (908) 514-9654, emailing [email protected] or may be downloaded at www.dreamcatcherrep.org.

Author Meet and Greet At Town Book Store WESTFIELD – The Town Book Store will be hosting a meet and greet for Scott Deitche, true crime author of Garden State Gangland: The Rise of the Mob in New Jersey on Saturday, February 10 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. New Jersey’s organized crime history has been one of the most colorful in the country, serving as the home of some of the most powerful, as well as below-the-radar, mobsters in the Country. And though overshadowed by the emphasis on New York City, the mob and New Jersey have, over the years, become synonymous, in both pop culture and in law enforcement. In Garden State Gangland, Mr. Deitche sets the historical record straight by providing the first overall history of the mob in New Jersey, from the early turn of the century Black Hand gangs to the present, and looks at their influence not only in the Garden State, but across the country as a whole. The Town Book Store located at 270 East Broad Street in Westfield (corner of East Broad and Elmer Streets).

JMU Announces President's List

Among those students are: Haley Sharlow of Westfield, Jennifer Pires of Mountainside, Caitlyn Splaine of Mountainside, and Kristen Splaine of Mountainside.

Wenqi Duan Receives Univ. of Iowa Degree IOWA CITY, I.A. – Wenqi Duan, a native of Scotch Plains, received a MS-Electrical and Computer Engineering degree from the University of Iowa at the close of the fall 2017 semester.

HARRISONBURG, Virg. – James Madison University is pleased to announce the following students made the president's list for the fall 2017 semester: Kristin Leu of Cranford, John McCaffery of Cranford, Kayla Piatkowski of Cranford and Sophie Marie Brause of has been named to the president's list at James Madison University for the fall 2017 semester. Students who earn president's list honors must carry at least 12 graded credit hours and earn a GPA of 3.900 or above. Brause is majoring in Computer Science.

CDC Theatre Presents

Local Students Earn Dean’s List at Norwich NORTHFIELD, Vt. – The following students have been recognized on the dean’s list at Norwich University for the fall 2018 semester: Andrew Thomas Ciccarino and Nicole Kimberly Skickova, both of Scotch Plains.

Students Return From Studying Globally GETTYSBURG, Penn. – At Gettysburg, students use the opportunity to study globally to pursue diverse paths in multiple areas of study. Over 200 students studied globally in the Fall 2017 semester, representing over 30 majors in over 25 countries. Colin Dursee, OMS- Intra-Organizational Dyn major from Westfield studied in France. Carly Kalis, OMS- Intra-Organizational Dyn major from Westfield, studied in Italy.

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The Westfield Leader and The Scotch Plains – Fanwood TIMES

Thursday, February 8, 2018

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Festivities at Trailside: Mad Science, Maple Sugaring and More A Man and His Prostate, Starring Ed Asner at UCPAC RAHWAY – On Sunday, March 25, the Union County Performing Arts Center’s Hamilton Stage will host two performances of A Man and his Prostate starring Ed Asner and written by Ed Weinberger. Based on a true-life experience, a man discovers his inner self in more ways than one. A near tragedy is masterfully transformed into a one-man comedy, perfectly portrayed by Ed Asner in his hilarious visit to the hospital in preparation for surgery he doesn’t want. Ed Asner has been an enduring presence in television, film and stage for 60 years. Developing his craft in Chicago and New York, Ed established himself as a solid and versatile performer, regularly featured in roles on the big screen and in such landmark television series as “The Outer Limits,” “Gunsmoke,” “The Wild Wild West,” “Ironside,” and “Mission Impossible,” totaling more than 100 television credits. In the ’70s, his role as Lou Grant in the long-running hit sitcom “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” catapulted him to stardom. He then cemented himself as an “actor’s actor,” perpetuating his character in the dramatic series “Lou Grant.” Ed is the only actor to have won an Emmy for the same role in both a comedy and a drama (five total as Lou Grant). He went on to win two more Emmy Awards for complex roles in the mega-hit miniseries “Roots” and “Rich Man, Poor Man.” Throughout his career, Ed has always been in great demand. In addi-

tion to his celebrated work in television, he turned in unforgettable performances in films such as JFK, Elf, and Pacific Edge. He returned to Broadway in Grace, and toured the country with his one-man show FDR, portraying President Franklin D. Roosevelt. If that weren’t enough, Ed served two terms as President of the Screen Actors Guild, protecting the rights of professional working actors. Born and raised in Philadelphia, Ed Weinberger began his TV career after he dropped out of Columbia University to begin a writing career for stand-up comedians Dick Gregory and Richard Pryor. His first job in television was writing for “The Tonight Show starring Johnny Carson. He was also a contributing writer for Bob Hope, “The Dean Martin Variety Hour” and “The Cosby Show”, which

ran for 8 years, receiving 9 Emmy nominations. Weinberger also wrote for the TV series “Taxi”, for which he was awarded an Emmy for Best Outstanding Comedy Series. He went on to create several sitcoms, including “Amen,” “Dear John,” “Baby Talk,” and “Sparks.” Tickets are available for purchase at www.ucpac.org/events. VIP tickets include a Meet & Greet with Asner, light fare provided. Tickets may also be purchased in person by visiting the Main Stage Box Office located at 1601 Irving Street in Rahway, N.J. The Box Office can be reached via email at [email protected] and by phone at (732) 499-8226. The Hamilton Stage is located at 360 Hamilton Street in Rahway, N.J. and both locations are easily accessible to major roads and public transportation.

Muhlenberg College Prod. Features Local Dancers ALLENTOWN, Penn. – A spectacular evening of ballet, contemporary dance, tap, and jazz, "Master Choreographers" at Muhlenberg College will showcase world premiere dance works performed by more than 60 students and choreographed by nationally and internationally acclaimed guest artists and faculty. Local students who will perform include: Ashley Veglia of Scotch Plains, Madeline Flaherty of

Westfield and Julian Mone of Westfield. This season's concert, which runs February 8 through 10, will feature "It Happens Only Once... Yesterday and Tomorrow," choreographed by guest artist Tiffany Mills, the founder of Tiffany Mills Company, which has received attention from The New York Times and collaborated with a number of prestigious institutions.

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MOUNTAINSIDE – The Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders presents special programs for families during the Presidents’ Day Holiday on Saturday, February 17 and Monday, February 19. “February Festivities at Trailside offers educational and imaginative programs to delight people of all ages,” said Freeholder Chairman Sergio Granados. “This year we are excited to welcome Mad Science of New Jersey with their entertaining, engaging and handson workshops.” Highlighting Presidents’ Day on Monday, February 19 is Mad Science of New Jersey. Children ages 8-12 are invited to join a professional teacher from the Mad Science team to discover how much fun science can be. Through hands-on demonstrations, unique equipment and animated instructors, children will enjoy investigating chemical reactions in Chem in a Flash offered at 1 and 2 p.m. Chem in a Flash permits young scientists to perform instantaneous experiments and witness split second reactions. Children can also explore the farthest reaches of the solar system, create a lunar eclipse and build and take home Kepler’s Cube, a fun and educational 3-D Solar System puzzle during Planets and Moons also offered at 1 and 2 p.m. on February 19. You can enroll your child in back to back sessions for an exciting, super science filled afternoon. Longer days and patterns of freezing and thawing signal the beginning of another maple sugaring season. Each year for a period of only four to

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six weeks the sap of the sugar maple tree is collected and turned into syrup. This year, Trailside celebrates The Journey of Sap to Syrup on Saturday, February 17 and Monday, February 19 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Learn how 100 percent real maple syrup is made from the sap of the sugar maple tree. Find out what equipment is needed to collect sap and take a walk to see a tapped sugar maple tree. Take part in a taste test to see if

tracks, nibbled twigs and other signs that tell us our animal neighbors have visited. Conclude your outdoor investigation around a warm campfire with hot chocolate and marshmallows. Animal Clue Winter Walk and Campfire is offered 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, February 17. Trailside is offering a special arts and crafts workshop Winter Art Extravaganza for all ages on Monday, February 19 any time between 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Parents and their children are invited to drop in and use their artistic abilities to celebrate the season. Winter and snow will be the inspiration for this afternoon’s craft session. Pre-registration is required for programs as space is limited. Walk-ins will be accommodated as space permits. The fee for Chem in a Flash and Planets and Moons is $10/ child for residents of Union County and $12/child for out-of-county residents. The fee for The Journey of Sap to Syrup, Animal Clue Winter Walk & Campfire and Outrageous Owls is $5/person for residents of Union County and $6/person for out-of-county residents. The fee for the Winter Art & Crafts Extravaganza is $5/child for residents of Union County and $6/ child for out-of-county residents For additional information about programs offered during February Festivities, winter workshops and special events, please call 908-7893670 or visit www.ucnj.org/trailside. Trailside Nature and Science Center is located at 452 New Providence Road in Mountainside and is a service of the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders.

A Winter Walk at Trailside

you can identify the real thing. Outrageous Owls, offered on Saturday, February 17 from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m., investigates the habits and habitat of these secretive, nocturnal animals. Listen to calls of the screech, great horned and barred owls. Learn about the special adaptations these birds have that make them successful hunters. Families are invited to work together and challenge their natural history skills on a winter walk in search of animal

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Blue Devil Wrestlers Prevail Over Wounded Cougars, 43-18 By DAVID B. CORBIN Specially Written for The Westfield Leader and The Times

Absentees due to illness or injury prevented what could have been a very tight match between two rivals at the Westfield High School gym on February 2. But with three key Cougars out of the lineup, both teams needed to readjust their lineups and the result was a 43-18 victory by the Blue Devils over Cranford. Missing from the Cougar lineup were Rob Schork (the Union County Tournament [UCT] champ at 220-lbs), Conor Halpin (2nd in

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UCT at 138-lbs), Luke DiGiovanni (2nd in UCT at 126-lbs) and Dean Smith (132-lbs) but the JV standins were ready to get their chance and gave it their all. “That obviously wasn’t Cranford’s go-to lineup. When they are at full strength, they are a really good team. We’ve been there. We’ve been there with the depleated lineup. It’s tough! But those Cranford kids wrestled hard knowing that they didn’t have all their firepower,” Blue Devil Head Coach Glen Kurz said. One veteran the Cougars needed See & Subscribe at goleader.com/ballyhoo

bonus points from was junior AJ Bencivenga, who took to the mat in the second bout of the evening at 145-lbs, but he was well aware that with a full lineup, the match would have been much closer, perhaps not even decided until the final bout was over. “A lot of where their good guys were is where we had our good guys,” Bencivenga commented. The Blue Devils took a 3-0 team lead when Luke Scanlan recorded a single-leg trip, a backdoor-tofront door and a double-leg takedown to grab an 8-2 decision over Jack Korzeneski at 138-lbs. Bencivenga then went to his arsenal of barrel rolls, fireman’s and duckunder takedowns to build a 12-3 lead over Sean Dwyer

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before he pinned him in 3:50 with an arm bar/wrist combination. “I knew the team needed six. They needed big points from me, so I kept trying to get in my high crotch [takedown] and got behind. I tried working my turns but he got out. Then I just got to my dump [barrel roll] and got

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him to his back there. I knew I could get to it, so I just kept hitting it until I was able to get my bar on the right side and run him over and get the six for the team,” Bencivenga described. Bencivenga also pulled off a slick leg-around to grapevine reversal early in the second period. Blue Devil Jordan Simpson also went the takedown route in his 152-lb bout with Max Nock and threw in a roll-through tilt, a switch reversal and a half nelson nearfall to claim a 17-5, major decision. At 160-lbs, Blue Devil Isaiah Reese recorded a singleleg lift, a single-to-a-double and a short throw takedown to go with a far arm tilt to seize an 83 victory over Kyell Roper. Blue Devil Tim Miller loved his headCONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

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New Jersey Sports, Humor and Commentary

more photos next page

Legal Newspaper for Union County d County,, Cranfor Cranford Westfield Blue Devil Wrestlers Prevail Over Wounded Cranford Cougars, 43-18 and-arm series of takedowns to grab an 11-4 decision over Danny Swanson at 170-lbs. Next came a toss-up bout between Blue Devil Russ Weber and Justin Alpaugh-McLean at 182lbs. After being taken to the mat with a lift-and-trip takedown, Weber woke up, quickly escaped and eventually went on to win 5-4. “Our coach says if your opponent brings you down and you bounce right up, you really break him. That kind of resonated with me and any time he picked me up, I bouced back up. I wasn’t going to be taken down and staying flat,” Weber said. Weber did record a low backdoor takedown in the second period and sealed the deal with a reversal in the third period.

“I don’t like to shoot in matches. I like upper body throws but it felt good to finally finish a move,” Weber said. “Russ did a great job. It took him a little while to wake up in his match. That was a toss up match. Coming in we were planning for their full team, that was one that we had to have. Russ fell behind but he did a real nice job battling back and showed some guts. That’s what we talk about wrestling for your team and he did that tonight,” Coach Kurz said. “To bounce up. That really comes from the practice room. We all practice really hard with our teammates. Johnny Heard, Brendan Loder and Matt Dente are my practice partners. We take a lot of pride working with

each other, working hard and pushing each other in the room. And that’s when we can come out here and be explosive,” Weber said. At 195-lbs, Cougar Zach Blevins recorded a spin-behind takedown and converted a defensive takedown to a nearfall to top Brendan Loder, 7-1. Cougar Dylan Budnik, using a single-leg takedown and a double-leg takedown, beat Matt Dente, 5-2, at 220-lbs then Cougar Matt Savino received a forfeit at 285-lbs to give his team an 18-16 lead. The rest was all Westfield. Jake Bencivenga pinned Brandon Reilly in 43 seconds with an arm bar/half nelson at 106-lbs. CJ Composto rocked Will Fernandez to sleep in 52 seconds with a

cradle at 113-lbs. Luke Hoerle (120-lbs) received a forfeit. Quinn Gimblette’s cradle-like takedown in the third period rewarded him with a 6-5 victory over Pat Kalnins at 126-lbs then Jeremy Silber recorded numerous takedowns and nearfalls before pinning Chris Esposito in 5:39 with an arm bar/ half nelson. “We have a ton of people out right now. We brought up a lot of our JV guys trying to pull off this win but a lot of situations didn’t go our way. As a team we got to look better and wrestle for sections with everybody back in the room,” Bencivenga said. “I would say this was a team effort. Everybody wrestled. Getting into this point of the season, getting into the playoff in the

Ballyhoo Garwood Board Hears Final Report On 298-Unit South Avenue Development Sports, Humor and Commentary

By MICHAEL BONACCORSO Specially Written for The Westfield Leader

Christina M. Hinke for The Westfield Leader

A FULL SLATE...A crowd gathers to listen to four of the seven Democratic candidates for Congress representing the 7th District of New Jersey aimed at unseating Republican Leonard Lance on Tuesday in the Cranford Community Center. Goutam Jois of Summit, Tom Malinowski of Rocky Hill, David Pringle of Cranford and Scott Salmon of Scotch Plains answered questions from the public. Candidates Peter Jacob, Lisa Mandelblatt and Linda Weber will participate in a separate event.

CRANFORD — Four of the seven Democratic candidates for Congress representing the 7th District of New Jersey talked about their platform aimed at unseating five-term incumbent Republican Leonard Lance at a candidate meet-and-greet event held Tuesday in a packed meeting room in the Cranford Community Center. Goutam Jois of Summit, Tom Malinowski of Rocky Hill, David Pringle of Cranford and Scott Salmon of Scotch Plains answered questions from the public. Peter Jacob of Union, Lisa Mandelblatt of Westfield and Linda Weber of Berkeley Heights also are running on the Democratic ticket and will participate in a similar forum at 7 p.m. on Thursday, February 22, also at the Community Center.

The candidates at Tuesday’s forum gave their views on the environment, infrastructure, taxes, gun control, ethics, and campaign finance reform. A priority of Mr. Salmon, who is an attorney and also has worked on state and Presidential campaigns, is to stop the effects of climate change, saying the environment is “one of the biggest issues of my lifetime.” Mr. Salmon said he has a $1-trillion infrastructure plan, and suggested a high-speed rail such as one used in Japan, rebuilding power grids, building more efficient power lines, and other approaches. The lack of support on environmental issues is “systematic of a deeper problem,” said Mr. Jois, an attorney who has worked on cases for human rights and free speech. “Leonard Lance doesn’t have the integrity to take a posiCONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

GARWOOD — Stonefield Engineering and Design professional engineer, Charles D. Olivo, presented the planning board last Wednesday with a final traffic and parking report for the proposed 298-unit South Avenue redevelopment, property known as the Casale/Petro site. The property is owned by South Ave. Urban Renewal, LLC, which is affiliated with Russo Development. At last week’s meeting Mr. Olivo said the development should “not have a significant impact on the operation of intersections” or Garwood’s traffic flow. Mr. Olivo said a technologically advanced parking system utilizing real-time data to determine spot availability, on-site valets, and managerial oversight would provide South Avenue residents, their visitors, and retail consumers with an uninhibited parking experience. “Over the last five years we have found after projects are built they are very low with trip generation,” he said. Trip generation refers to the total motor vehicles utilizing South Avenue and the Center Street intersection after the development is constructed. The total cars waiting at each light change along South Avenue headed towards Center Street would increase by two cars on average, according to Mr. Olivo. Harbor Consultants, Inc. engineer Victor Vinegra said reducing the yellow marked no idling zone in front of the Garwood firehouse could allow more cars to clear the light and actually more accessibility for emergency vehicles leaving the firehouse. Mr. Olivo concurred with Mr. Vinegra’s opinion.

Mr. Olivo said “peak times” are the most important time frame when considering “post build” traffic impacts. Planning Board member Bill Nierstedt said too often engineers representing developers often say the traffic impact will be zero on travel time, but the travel time becomes a little bit longer after each surrounding development is finished. Mr. Olivo said he does not suggest any specific road construction will be necessary such as lane expansion or increasing road surface area to accommodate the 298 residential units’ traffic impact. Keeping a pedestrian environment where residents walk, bicycle, use transit buses and trains to travel to work is important to the downtown Garwood wants to foster. Mr. Olivo said residents living in the development and commuting to the city would use NJ Transit, including both buses and

trains. He said 35 bicycle slips would be available with over seven separate bicycle racks. He said widening roads, adding turning lanes, and other road reconstructive measures would encourage more automotive use. Mr. Olivo said more automotive use bolsters negative environmental impacts including a need for more storm water retention and higher municipal insurance premiums, while hampering the “the pedestrian experience.” Resident Bruce Paterson said he was concerned how an intersection with a New Jersey Department of Transportation “Frating” is acceptable. Intersections are ranked “A” to “F,” with “A” being the best and “F” the worst in terms of traffic congestion. “Is it okay to add cars because it is already F-rated and will continue to be?” Mr. Paterson asked. Mr. Olivo responded that the CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

Child-Luring Incident Reported In Cranford CRANFORD – The Cranford Police Department responded to a reported child-luring attempt on Centennial Avenue. The incident occurred at approximately 3:40 p.m. near the intersection of Buchanan Street. According to police, a juvenile female was walking home from school when a unknown male, in his late teens to early twenties, slowed down in traffic and asked the student twice if she wanted a ride home. The child refused and later contacted a family member, who reported the incident to authorities.

The driver, described as a thin white male with long black hair and shaved sides, never exited the vehicle or made physical contact with the child. The suspect’s vehicle was described as an older model white sedan. Cranford police detectives are actively attempting to gather video and surveillance from local businesses and residences. Anyone having information to assist with the investigation is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Matthew Nazzaro at (908) 709-4313 or Detective Michael Dubitsky at (908) 709-7358.

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NJ-7th Dem. Congressional Candidsates Participate tion on contentious issues of our time,” Mr. Jois said. Mr. Pringle, who is an environmental and public health advocate, said Mr. Lance, though he supported environmental initiatives a decade ago, has now “abandoned all principles.” Mr. Lance was a state lawmaker prior to being elected to Congress in 2008. One question posed was how the candidates would stand up to President Donald Trump. Mr. Salmon said Congress needs a moral leadership that can bridge the divide. Mr. Jois agreed, saying Congress needs to find a common ground and have a “united front to stand up to Trump.” Mr. Pringle said he has

fought big corporations such as Exxon, and locally he is supporting Fanwood Mayor Colleen Mahr in her run for Union County Democratic chair, saying there is an “Old Boys Club” in Union County. Mr. Malinowski said if Democrats controlled one house in Congress they could defend the core institutions, such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation, that are under attack. As assistant secretary of state under President Barack Obama, Mr. Malinowski was involved in preserving evidence to get an investigation underway on Russia’s involvement in the 2016 Presidential election. Mr. Malinowski, who emigrated from Poland to New Jersey at age 6 with his mother,

Registration Begins March 1 For Kidz Klub Day Camp CRANFORD — Members of the Cranford Pool and Fitness Center may enroll child members in Kidz Klub, a weekly summer day camp, running from June 18 to August 24. The Klub emphasizes outdoor play, pool activities, arts and crafts, as well as a weekly bus trip. Enrollment is for children ages 5 to 12, with options for early dropoff (7 a.m.) and late pickup (6:30 p.m.). The Kidz Klub runs for 10 weeks but participants may enroll for one to three weeks, four to six weeks or seven to 10 weeks. Registration for summer pool memberships is open to residents and non-residents starting Thursday, March 1, and must be completed before registering for the Kidz Klub. Registration packets will be available either in the Fitness Center at 401 Centennial Avenue or online at cranfordnj.org/pool-fitness-cen-

ter/pages/forms starting Monday, February 12. Registration will begin March 1 and will take place Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and must be done in person, as space is limited. For additional hours or more information, call Sally at (908) 7097260, extension no. 2307.

Author Geri Livelli To Sign Books Feb. 10

CRANFORD — The community is invited to meet Cranford author Geri Livelli this Saturday, February 10, between 1 and 4 p.m., at Periwinkle’s Fine Gifts, located at 19 North Union Avenue, Cranford. Ms. Livelli will sign copies of her book “The Cameo.” Refreshments will be served. A free chocolate rose will be given with every book purchase. There will be 20 percent off all cameo jewelry in the store that day.

said if he was elected to Congress he would “not allow this administration to inject racism...fear of the immigrant into our law enforcement policy, our immigration policy...” When asked which committee each would choose to serve on should he be elected, Mr. Pringle said he would choose the Energy and Commerce Committee, Mr. Salmon said the House Ethics Committee, and Mr. Malinowski said the Ways and Means Committee. In response to budgetary questions, Mr. Pringle said he would cut the Pentagon budget to aid cost savings and repeal the tax plan passed by Republicans at the end of 2017 and signed by President Trump. Tax reform and adding a new tax bracket for those making $750,000 a year was mentioned by Mr. Salmon. Corporate subsidies should be redirected to education, health care and the environment, Mr. Jois said. Mr. Malinowski said he would like to see the tax bill replaced and repealed, calling the tax bill “economic malpractice.” In response to gun reform, Mr. Malinowski said gun laws should focus on “sensible reform” such as universal background checks and banning bump stocks. Mr. Pringle said there should be “appropriate regulations,” further saying legislation should be passed that would ban guns for those who are mentally disturbed, on terrorist watch lists, and domestic abusers. Mr. Salmon said private gun sellers should have access to a national federal database to conduct background checks on their buyers. All four candidates agreed there has to be bipartisan support of funding a tunnel for rail transit into New York. The Primary Election is Tuesday, June 5.

New Jersey Sports, Humor and Commentary

Garwood Hears 298-Unit Report entire intersection is not “F rated,” but specific positions or vehicular maneuvers currently are rated poorly. He said post-construction alterations can be made including altering signal time to assure the intersection remains safe and efficient. A total of 482 parking spaces will be available for 298 residential units. Forty-eight of the 482 parking slips will be available for retail space employees, patrons and visitors. Christopher Minks, an attorney for Russo Development, the developer for the project, said data collections on consumer averages would create a balance between residential availability and visitor parking availability based on an implied demand and an actual demand. “This is not AI (artificial intelligence),” said Mr. Minks, suggesting a parking manager would oversee spot inventories based on non-accounted-for factors such as impending snowstorms. Mr. Minks said the parking technology is proposed to create a 20percent increase in parking effi-

ciency such as parking spot location time stated. An electronic board would inform residents which floor has available parking spots, saving residents time. Mr. Olivo said hourly visitor parking reduces parking abuse to help free up space. Mr. Minks added that the parking garage would be privately operated and is not a municipal entity. Mr. Minks said if a restaurant is selected for the retail space in the development, valets would park patrons’ cars, assessing availability based on a technology system determining which floor in the three-story South Avenue parking garage open spots are available. Mr. Minks said the valet service is a “game changer,” separating Russo Development end products from other developers’ layouts in neighboring townships. A second development, known as South Avenue II, will include 52 stacked townhouses. The board may vote on the application at its Wednesday, February 21 meeting after testimony has been completed.

Calvary Lutheran Invites All For Ash Wednesday CRANFORD — The Calvary Lutheran Church invites the community to Ash Wednesday services on February 14 at 1:15 p.m. or 7:30 p.m. Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the 40-day journey of Lent. Both the afternoon and evening services will include Holy Communion and the Imposition of Ashes. On Ash Wednesday, Christians traditionally gather in worship to confess their sins and prepare their hearts and minds for the renewal of faith through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

“It’s interesting that Ash Wednesday falls on St. Valentine’s Day this year,” said Calvary Pastor Carol Lindsay. “We are hoping to take a pragmatic look at the failures many of us experience in relationships and the grace that God in Christ offers.” Calvary Lutheran Church holds worship every Sunday at 9:30 a.m. in the sanctuary. Everyone is welcome. Calvary is located at 108 Eastman Street, Cranford. For more information about the congregation, call the office at (908) 276-2418 or go to calvarycranford.com.

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Library Friends Set Used Book Sale Dates

CRANFORD — The Friends of the Cranford Public Library invite the community to visit their used book sale in the Cranford Public Library’s Friendly Book Cellar. The sale will take place on Wednesday, March 7, 4 to 8:30 p.m.; Thursday and Friday, March 8 and 9, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Saturday, March 10, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. More than 10,000 adult and children’s books, as well as CDs, DVDs and recorded books, will be for sale. Prices range from 25 cents to $2, except for a few specially-marked items. Saturday will be Bag Day, when customers can fill a bag with books for $8. The library is located at 224 Walnut Avenue, Cranford. Entrance to the sale is through the side door, just off the main parking lot. The sale is wheelchairaccessible. Proceeds will benefit the library. For more information about the Friends of the Cranford Public Library, go to cranfordlibrary.org and click on Friends of the Library.

Trinity School Slates Tricky Tray Friday

CRANFORD — The Trinity Episcopal Day School (TEDS) will host its fourth annual Tricky Tray event tomorrow, Friday, February 9, from 7 to 10 p.m. It will take place in Sherlock Hall at the school, located at 205 North Avenue East, Cranford. Tickets are $25 per person. “Proceeds from the evening will go for new classroom equipment,” said Nancy Ditzel, TEDS director. “We invite all adults to join us for a fun evening for a great cause.” Attendees need to bring their own food and wine. Coffee, tea, water and desserts will be provided. Tickets may be purchased in advance or at the door. Interested persons are asked to call (908) 276-2881.

New Jersey Sports, Humor and Commentary

Wednesday Morning Club Highlights Feb. Programs

SOUPER STUDENTS...For the fourth year in a row, the students of Harding School in Kenilworth collected canned goods, plus hats, gloves and scarves, for the Cranford Elmora Soup Kitchen and the First Baptist Church of Elizabeth’s Food Pantry. The Student Council started this project to coincide with “Souper” Bowl Sunday in memory of Judy Ringler, a beloved Harding School secretary. Ms. Ringler was a dedicated volunteer and supporter of the Cranford/Elmora Soup Kitchen for several years. Each year she coordinated a school collection of hats, gloves and scarves for the guests of the program.

College Women Prepare To ‘Go Van Gogh’ Monday CRANFORD — “Go Van Gogh!” will be the topic of Michael Norris at the Monday, February 12 meeting of the College Women’s Club of Cranford. The meeting will take place at the First Presbyterian Church, located at 11 Springfield Avenue, Cranford. Mr. Norris has a Bachelor of Arts in Classics from the University of California at San Diego and a Master of Arts in Classics and a Ph.D. in Art History from the University of California at Santa Barbara. He has spent 20 years at the Cloisters Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and has lectured in classical and medieval art, the areas of his expertise, on trips all over the world. He is the founder of Armchair Art Tours. Vincent Van Gogh, pastor and painter, produced more than 2,000 works of art in his last decade. As he had no children, he viewed his paintings as his progeny. Mr. Norris will explore some of these “Brilliant Children,” especially those at the Metro-

politan Museum of Art, with attendees at this meeting. The evening will begin at 7 p.m. with refreshments, followed by the meeting and Mr. Norris’ program. The meeting is open to the public and all are invited to attend. The College Women’s Club of Cranford also invites the public to attend its first annual “Scholar Tea” on Sunday, March 11, from 1 to 3 p.m. It will be held at Bates Hall in the First Presbyterian Church on Springfield Avenue in Cranford. An assortment of tea sandwiches and gourmet tea will be provided along with a guest speaker who will talk about the history of tea. The Cake Artist Cafe will cater the sandwiches and desserts for the tea. All proceeds from the tea will support the club’s scholarship fund, which provides scholarships for Cranford high-school seniors who are pursuing a degree at a college or university. Tickets are $30 per person. For ordering information, send an e-mail to [email protected]

CRANFORD — The Wednesday Morning Club has announced its calendar of activities for the month of February. There will be no business meeting this month. The club’s first event of the month will be the Tuesday, February 13 meeting of its Public Affairs Department at 1 p.m. at the home of Lorraine Ross. Those planning to attend are asked to call her. Members are asked to bring articles from newspapers and magazines that are about issues of public interest happening in New Jersey and nationally for a group discussion. On Tuesday, February 20, at 10 a.m., the Arts and Crafts Department will feature a workshop led by Anne Castellano. Ms. Castellano, a club member and an artist who has exhibited her work locally, will teach attendees about drawing. Participants will produce their own drawings to take home. Those planning to attend are asked to bring a ruler and an eraser and to call Ms. Castellano, who will supply all other materials. All Wednesday Morning Club members are welcome. The workshop will take place at the Cranford Community Center, located at 220 Walnut Avenue, Cranford. The Literature Department will meet at the home of Barbara Jack-

son on Monday, February 26, at 1 p.m. Ms. Jackson will lead participants in a discussion of the New York Times bestseller “The Tender Bar” by J.R. Moehringer. Interested persons are asked to call Ms. Jackson if they plan to attend. The club’s March 2018 business meeting will take place on Wednesday, March 7, at 10 a.m., at the Cranford Community Center. Sue Driscoll will preside. John Prescott from the office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs in Union County will be the guest speaker. Mr. Prescott will present a program about famous women who lived and worked in Union County throughout the area’s history up to the present. The public is invited. For more information about the Wednesday Morning Club, call Vice-President Carolyn Moran at (908) 233-5635 or e-mail her at [email protected]

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Roger Williams University Tells Fall 2017 Dean's List BRISTOL, R.I. – Select students have been named to the Spring 2017 Dean's List at Roger Williams University in Bristol, R.I. Full-time students who complete 12 or more credits per semester and earn a GPA of 3.4 or higher are placed on the Dean's List that semester.